First post here.

My thoughts after owning two hondas (paid for both myself) is that honda makes a quality grocery getter.

I have decided to upgrade from my current car, a Nighthawk Black Pearl 2006 Honda Civic Si (24000 Miles today) to a Brand New 2008 RX8 with the Manual Transmission. I owe $7000 on the Si.

Help me choose a color and "educate" me on some of the accessories.

The car should remain completely stock for its purchase timeframe b/c of parents (I'm 19 and my parents don't do jack for me. I find it better this way as it teaches responsibility.)

I like the car in White and Blue, but I am leaning towards white because it compromises with a clean look and doesn't show all the dirt like black does. However I would completely go blue if its a deep blue and not a misty grayish blue. I can't really tell from the pictures on mazda's website. Maybe someone with a Stormy Blue can help me here.

I will definately be adding the rear spoiler option but am hesitant to do the appearance package... 1100 dollars is a lot considering it doesn't really add value to the car on trade in. the spoiler adds a mere $20 if I recall correctly.

Any input is appreciated. I'm looking at the Sport Manual 6 Spd.


Recap for people who didn't read:

New RX-8 Sport Manual 6 Spd Owner to be.
White or Blue?
Appearance Package?

 

First off... welcome to the club.
Far as color, I am not a fan of the white so I say go with blue. You can always do a google search to see images of RX8s that others have captured.
Now for the appearance package... I guess it depends on what you want to do with this car. If you are looking for just "appearance" then sure, go for it. But if you're looking at adding some HP/torque, I would save the money and go that route. If you plan on tracking it, spend the money on wheels and suspension.
$1100 is not bad for an appearance package (remember what kind of vehicle you have now... this is not a Civic ) and get used to accessories being a little pricey.

 

Heh, I guess I should post some pics of my Car. Thanks for the input.

 

 

I don't know why your posting pictures of your Civic... but as far as the RX-8 goes...

If your parents aren’t helping you out period, then just to let you know, your insurance will be high, your car payments will be high (for the estimated income-level of a 19 year old, but I could be wrong in this case), and any maintenance will be pricy... this is a 'serious sports car', as the dealer maintenance shop told me.

Beyond that, though, to answer your questions…
I saw a new Miata in the showroom that was Stormy Blue Mica, and it looked damn good… and it is a deep, dark, metallic blue... go with that over the white, IMO. As for the appearance package, get what you think will help the car to look the way you want it. If you want to add a different kit later, or a different wing, avoid the appearance package. However, if you like the look, go with it now, as its cheaper when you buy the car, plus you can finance it with the car purchase. eBay has a lot of the appearance package pieces for real cheap, however they don’t have any of the newer colors.

It’s a car that’s meant to be seen… don’t skimp on the little things!

 

In mention of the insurance.....it shouldn't be "too" high. This car classifies as a sedan due to the suicide doors. In the insurance company's eyes....you are purchasing a four door car. And yes, I can agree that up keep can get expensive on this car. For instance....spark plugs on most cars run you maybe $5 to $10 at the local auto supply store. In the way of an 8....have fun going to the dealer and paying $45 to $50 per spark plug. Don't go fouling out these babies. Figure on $800 for a decent set of tires. When you do get your first new set of tires, try to get something other than the stock tires. They do not handle well in wet conditions and wear quite quickly, imo.

 

Thanks for all the input! I'm going in about 90 minutes to go order my car.