Price is just one factor, some of us can certainly afford a $50K-$70K car, but choose not to. My wife already drives a luxury sedan in that price range, so a second one for me is redundant. My previous car was an M3, the current M3 or Porsche Boxter would be nice, but frankly I liked the RX-8 just as much as those cars and saved a bundle. Its styling, rotary engine, and 4 door design make it an entry level exotic for the ordinary joe.

I think the fact that I can afford more expensive sports cars but chose the RX-8 makes a statement for just how good this car really is.

 

just me thoughts excatly

 

If the RX-8 is about the size you are looking for, why not go for an STi or Evo?

The S4 is a much bigger and heavier car, so it just isn't going to have the nimble, tossable feel that you were hoping for. I'm not saying it isn't a nice car; it just doesn't sound like what you want.

The S3 probably would have been ideal given your requirements, too bad they don't sell them in the US...