rodrigo67

Last year our RX8's were invited to participate in the New England Exotic car show. We were invited in january for a june show (6 months). This year the show has been scheduled for aug 26th, and still no invite.

I guess the 8's are becoming a little too common and no longer qualify as exotic. I guess thats good news as Mazda is selling enough to keep production going and so many that they are not no longer rare.

I wonder if the 350z's will be there as I see far more of them then 8's in my area...


http://www.northeastexotic.com/

Imp

I saw three different Elises yesterday. No RX8s.

army_rx8

i wasn't aware the rx-8 was an exotic...doesn't fit the discription or deffinition that i'm aware of. but kudos to us

Wurmfist

The only currently produced car that dosen't run on pistons out of millions and millions of cars classifies at least as semi-exotic to me. When you think about ratios it's still a pretty rare car in terms of world-wide numbers.

StewyRX8

Agreed wurm... semi-exotic sounds like the fair jugdement of the 8's...

yiksing

Since when is the RX-8 an exotic?

Spin9k

Since June 19th, 2004

Don't give up rodrigo67 Aug is a long way off. I think we'll be there yet again

yiksing

Hahaha, that's news to me....

NgoRX8

iTrader: (1)

my car is still an exotic.

sti_eric

You have confused 'rare' with 'exotic'. Exotic cars (according to cars.com): Cars that are high-priced and produced in limited numbers.

The RX-8 fits in neither of these categories.

rodrigo67

I would agree, that I don't consider my car an exotic, but it is pretty rare around my area (even now). I noticed when we were at the show last year that there were no corvettes onsite. I asked one of the workers at the site and they replied that they are a dime a dozen and you see them everywhere. So, according to the New England exotic car club, rx8's were included because they are different ( rotary engines and suicide doors) and you didn't see them very often (at that time). RX7's were invited but none showed.

Interestingly, we were parked with the Lotus's and Ferrarri's behind us and the NSX's in front of us, Vipers to one side, and the Z club to our other. Very good company...

I will say that nissan z's from every era were on hand, 2 Evo's, and a couple of supra's were also onsite, as far as the average guys semi-exotic's go.

Spin9k

That is pretty vague criteria with no metrics (what's high priced? what is limited?) & little relevance to the word 'Exotic' you'll have to admit.

Wikipedia lists a hierachy of car labels, i.e., Supercars followed by Exotic cars, then Sports cars with criteria to determine where a car belongs. A base definition is:

"An exotic car is a type of automobile highly sought after for its styling and performance."

Thats is also very broad and covers many cars, however I think we owners, at least, can include overselves there...

"In addition to performance, the following criteria are also cited in determining if a particular sports car or exotic car deserves the supercar moniker..."

now obviously we do not have supercar performance, and are not supercars by any stretch of imagination, but argueably we do meet several of the criteria given for supercar status, such as:

- Styling — Supercars often feature groundbreaking styling elements. (we do)
- Technology — All supercars feature cutting edge contemporary racing car technology. (rotary engine, front-midship engine, purpose built performance chassis)
- Spirit — An extremely difficult aspect to objectively discuss is the "spirit" or "soul" many supercar buyers search for. (Mazda rotary DNA)

and they give this as a supercar criteria, not an exotic car one...

- Price — A supercar is expected to carry a high price tag, a racing reputation and a well-known name. Performance, quality and even design are lesser factors

Of course this is something no one will settle, only discuss back and forth, but I do consider the RX-8 to be a Affordable Exotic, yet another sub classifiaction of the Exotic car name and one subclass that we may be the only member of, therefore perhaps being just a little bit MORE exotic or at least exclusive than most!!!!

Just as a matter of interest, why would you want to protest that your car is so ordinary, not exotic or even close to exotic? but that's a dis-spirited depressing way to think about your purchase of an RX-8 IMHO, unless you thought of 'it', your car purchase, as a mere transportation appliance, as I suppose many (most) people would? .. or or ?

But I guess I see your attitude sti_eric and where you are coming from in your profile:

2004 Subaru Impreza WRX STi Java Black Pearl (Now with more turbo)
2004 6MT RX-8 Brilliant Black (Stock - why bother modding)

sad.... but anyway eric. Might just be me, but having some fun with the car, even if it's just words (mods too) is a good part of the joy of ownership of the RENESIS.

sti_eric

Because I am a realist, not like most of the leghumping Mazda fanbois who have their heads in the clouds. The reailty is that the RX-8 is an entry-level sports coupe (along the lines of the Mitsubishi Eclipse, Acura RSX-S, and Ford Mustang) that doesn't sell well. It handles very well, but isn't particularly fast by today's standards. If that is what you call exotic, then there are tons of cars that are 'exotics'.

Spin9k

Thanks for clarifing you comments, now I understand completely.

Jeff Torrey

For some owners there is a certain pecking order. A possible example might be (I have seen these things first hand)... Please keep in mind that I said some owners:

Ferrari Owners that look down at Lotus Owners
Lamborghini Owners that look down at Viper Owners
Viper Owners that look down at Corvette Owners
Corvette Owners that look down at Mustang Owners
Ford GT Owners that look down at DeTomaso Pantera Owners

These people are the most self-absorbed boring people that I have had the miss-fortune to be in the company of.

It's all BS. I have found that in this very small community most people are genuinely interested in all kinds of cars. Most people don't start by running out and buying a Lamborghini or a Porsche. Maybe it's a Miata or a WRX and later on it turns into something else.

It's the diversity that makes the show different. For me the most interesting thing is that your passionate about what you drive.

Your invited to the show because I consider you to be a part of this "Northeast Region" automotive community. We are gathering for a "cause"-...The Make-a-Wish Foundation. You have an opportunity to lighten the load of a child and their family.

If you think I'm blowin' smoke up your as@ then you don't know me. It takes hundreds of hours to plan an event like this, it has become the biggest day of the year for me.

If your not willing to show because you think your not worthy, then your missing an increadable opportunity.

...and I thank you for your support.

All my best- Jeff Torrey

Wurmfist

Notice the "semi-" I put in front of "exotic". If you are going to quote me and debate with me, be sure to read my post first.

sti_eric

And I am saying that the "semi" (which means "partially") doesn't even fit because the RX-8 does not fit any part of the definition of "exotic". If you are going to try to reprimand me, be sure to understand what you are talking about first.

Wurmfist

ex·ot·ic
adj.

1. From another part of the world; foreign: exotic tropical plants in a greenhouse. See Synonyms at foreign.
2. Intriguingly unusual or different; excitingly strange: “If something can be explained simply, in a familiar way, then it is best to avoid more exotic explanations” (Chet Raymo). See Synonyms at fantastic.
3. Of or involving striptease: an exotic dancer.


My RX-8 is from Japan, I live in the US, It's exotic according to the dictionary. I unsderstand perfectly what I'm talking about. It is You, who dont' understand Me. Not my problem...lol

Irish_in_a_RX8

iTrader: (1)

Always an exotic, including the gal in the pasenger seat

DRKSYDE

iTrader: (1)

Wooo gettin fiery in here!

Ok not one to try and put fuel to the fire of any controversy, I just wanted to add my OPINION to this thread because in reality the end result of any of this all comes down to someone's opinion. Semantics really.


I personally did a lot of research, driving, comparisons, etc. between the STi and the RX8... Even had the 350Z in there for good measure.

I ultimately chose the RX8, because in my OPINION it overall outperforms the other two vehicles. Surely there are a couple catagories in which the STi beats the 350 and RX8 and vice versa.

First of all the RX8 is hands down WAAAYYY better looking than the STi. The 350 is also a beautiful car with large sharp muscular lines, but doesn't have the refined curves and sweep of the body that the 8 posseses.

The build quality of the three of them was also a huge deciding factor for me. The 350's seems and interior were clean, tight, and fit very well, but still had a cold sterilized feeling to it. The STi to me was cheaply put together, very plasticy, clunky, and had no flow to it. I absolutely HATE the "half" doors that Subaru insists on using. There is certainly no solid "clunk" when you close the door like in the RX8 and the 350. The 8's interior styling cues are simply fantastic.

The 8 was far more comfortable than either one of the others while still retaining the racing style seats while employing leather and heat as well. The Z's seats were a little stiff and the least comfortable. I really like the STi's suede racing seats which keep you glued in them while pulling the cornering G's unlike the 8 which I find myself sliding out of all the time. (annoying) but again overall more comfortable.

Braking and cornering the RX crushes the competition. Sure I have raced some cars around town and have even gotten beat on the straights but I have yet to have a car keep up with me in the twisties. Honestly there was nothing to compare.

Speed/Weight... one could go on for days on this one. STi and 350 certainly have more horsepower and torque than the 8, but they also need it because of the extra weight involved. The "boxer" 4cyl and the Z's monster V6 make these cars weigh in 350 - 500 pounds more. They still manage slightly faster 0-60 times but honestly I could care less because unless you are on the track any one of these cars is going to be faster than 90% of the vehicles on the road. It's that simple.

Cool factor... to me there is nothing cooler than being different than everyone else around. How many production cars have a 9400RPM redline? Uh, not many and the sound of the 8 is so thrilling compared to the other two. The Wankel is a motor unlike any other. Where I live, my 8 is looked upon like it is an exotic. I am 1 of 2 8's in my area and everytime I drive around people are always pointing and saying "nice car".

Again, everything I have stated above is simply my OPINION and to each their own... BUT since this IS RX8Club.com I'm going to throw in a few other influential "opinions"

TOP GEAR - Any car enthusiast reading this has seen or heard of this automotive show. Undoubtedly you have also heard of a guy named Jeremy Clarkson (host of the show) As you all know Top Gear tests what they consider to be EXOTIC cars. The Pagani Zonda F, Lambo's, Bugattis, McClaren etc. They even took the time to put a "lowly" RX8 on the show. Let's just say it was recieved quite well. If you haven't seen it I won't spoil it for you. Check it out for yourself....



TOP GEAR RX8 VIDEO

Also check out the "Stig's" racing times lap sheet. Yes the STi paced a few spots higher (1.7 sec.) but look at the company the 8 is keeping...

THE STIG'S TIMES

Pretty impressive!

Oh yeah, then there is a little publication called Car and Driver....

C&D RX Review

LONG TERM WITH EDMUNDS

A Year With The 8

I think the RX8 does very well from a car manufacturer that I feel is highly under rated. The 1.3L naturally aspirated rotary is "silky" smooth and kees up with the heavier hitters quite well. Add a turbo and its more than just a contender.

SO... in closing... I love my RX8 and yes I do feel its somewhat exotic. Maybe some people don't. Like I said... to each their own.

AS THE TITLE STATES: OPINIONS VARY!

Have fun everyone! We are all obviously enthusiasts.

sti_eric

Purely subjective. I think that the STi looks aggressive, tough, and masculine while the RX-8 looks bulbous, feminine, and prissy. It's a good chick's car, which is why my wife uses ours as her daily driver. Manufacturers are building more aggressive (some call them "ugly") looking cars because that is what consumers are demanding. I don't really get what having a "good looking" does for you, anyway. I get overwhelmingly positive responses on the STi.

Riiiiight, you want to talk about quality. Our RX-8 has all kinds of rattles and we've had to replace *****, dials, and the center console because of things breaking. Absolutely no rattles and nothing breaking in the STi. I absolutely hate the placement of the center console in the RX-8, and the STi gauges are far superior. RX-8 has a better steering wheel, especially because of the radio controls.

I also prefer the STi seats because you don't slide around like you do in the RX-8.

Ah yes, the fallback position of the RX-8 owner...I can beat you in the twisties! I assure you, with equal drivers, the STi will win out in the "twisties" every time. While the RX-8 does handle a little better, it simply cannot overcome the difference in power. Also, you may want to check your data on the RX-8 "crushing" the competition in braking. Motor Trend's 60-0 braking distances: STi 108 feet, RX-8 111 feet.

2004 STi (what I drive) curb weight = 3263 lbs. RX-8 curb weight = 3045 lbs. 218 lb difference. Let me give you an example of being "slightly faster". 1/4 mile times: STI=13.2 (lower stock times have been run, but I'll just use C&D's numbers); RX-8=14.5. 1.3 second difference. At 100mph, 1.3 seconds is ~190 feet, or roughly 13.5 carlengths. Hardly a "slight" difference.

If you think that the RX-8 gets attention, try driving an STi. In my experience of owning both, the STi gets far more looks and attention. I've had people follow me until I park just to get out and tell me what an awesome car they think it is. Doesn't happen with the RX-8. "Car guys", especially, are more drawn to the STi. While the RX-8 is just another moderately-performing entry-level sporty coupe, the STi is a performance monster that demands (and receives) respect on the street.

Even people on this site know that those numbers don't jack squat. I mean, take a look at the NSX. Also, as you pointed out, the STi beat the RX-8. However, this is a UK-spec STi with the 2.0L motor, not the USDM 2.5L 300 hp machine.

In the end, the RX-8 is another entry-level sporty coupe that looks decent, handles great, is moderately quick but does not have enough power to get you in trouble, good set of features, and costs $30K (well, I guess since it's such a poor seller, it's more like $20-$22K).

In the end, the STi is a performance beast that is very fast, handles very well, is agressive, is easily moddable, but lacks refinement, and costs $30K.

Neither is anywhere close to "exotic". Low production numbers and a limited fan base does not make a car "exotic". If that were the case, then there are hundreds of models of cars that are exotic. Kinda waters down the meaning of the word.

Wurmfist

9K RPMS, that's a pretty good write up.

Spin9k

I used to wonder why Ike was here at times, but you're on another level. You seem to want to take down anyone who professes the RX-8 is anything special. Duah! This IS the RX8club or hadn't you noticed?

Great your wife owns/drives an RX8, why don't you sit her down to reply ... perhaps she is of different opinion? ... she drives the car mostly I would imagine. You obviously have great contempt for OUR car... no problem... we get the picture, WE here certainly can understand that. But we're RX-8 enthusiasts first, so what are you expecting..... therefore I think you are simply trolling with bait in pen.

Therefore if not that, why are you here (repetitively) and what's the point? There must be a club for subie 'fanbois' (a term you so lovingly use on us), yes? Wouldn't your opinions be more at home there?

IMO you are a simple troll, with no sense of humor nor even a urge to debate. Worse, you're simply not even a fun conversationalist, it's your way or no way, everyone who protests YOUR single minded opinion is absolutely wrong.

DjRx8

My car still gets photos taken and long glimpse around it when I park near the crowd. Pure good sporty curvy lines are what people are attracted to. Exotic or not, I don't know. What I know is the 8 is unique and exquisite, and until this afternoon, infact, it still turn heads!

DjRx8

sti eric -
Yeah, you got the hp bragging rights. However with a little over 200 hp the 8 still holds some impressive track times. I wonder how much dust your sti will consume if we got the same hp!!!

And face it, if you're in a proper state of mind,the RX8 looks much more exotic - just ask anyone!

AND DON'T GIVE ME THAT 'AGGRESIVE' ****!