Plasti-Dipped my wheels using a combination of matte black (original), copper metalizer and silver metalizer. Many light coats in combination (3 of black, 4-5 dustings of copper and silver) to get this color/effect. I've dipped wheels on previous vehicles and it has always held up great when applied properly. One set (very similar to these) was still going strong after almost 2 years (including two New England winters) until I peeled it off when selling the car. They went through monthly car washes and saw their share of snow/salt. I will post a more detailed DIY one I've been a member for 30 days and gain access to the adult section of the forum. Will also post several other DIY's

Next steps, as far as cosmetics go, will be:
-Springs/shocks (either Mazdaspeed combo or H-Tech + undetermined shock)
-Possibly some 15-25mm wheel spacers (need to read up more here to ensure I don't meaningfully compromise handling)
-Front emblem removal with (proper) hole patch-up
-Modest tints
-Replacement exhaust tips (I don't really like the stock tips, but don't want to waste money on a cat-back, will be using something like this: http://perrinperformance.com/images/F92564259.jpg )
-Mazdaspeed or similar rear wing if I can find one for a decent deal
I'll be doing all of these mods myself and posting detailed DIY's (again, once I'm deemed ready for the adult section).

In terms of performance (I understand the springs/shocks mentioned above will aid in this category as well), I have a mid-pipe in the mail and will be doing sway bars.

Quick note about the dip-job: I forgot to do the center-caps while painting the wheels so I rushed them this morning with some thick, sloppy coats. That's why they don't look as smooth as the wheels. Tough to notice while on the car, so I'll probably just leave them as-is for now. I'm debating on whether to add a light coat of glossifier, open to everyone's thoughts.

 

While I'm at it, I've also been working on this model to illustrate the relationship between horsepower and torque (something particularly relevant with a car like the RX-8). I've been shocked at how misunderstood this is. There are so many incorrect explanations across the web, so I plan to create a simple website with this model and a walk-through video.

I'd be interested in getting folks' feedback, as this is just a draft that I plan on iterating over the next few weeks.

EDIT: Just added Google spreadsheets version. I had to make it 'editable' by all because the whole point is that it is dynamic. So if you change assumptions around, try to make an effort to change them back when you are done (can just keep ctrl+z'ing to do so): https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/...Gc&usp=sharing

 

I recommend converting that model to Google Docs and just sharing the link, there are too many malware/virus concerns about loading an Excel file from an unknown source, plus it's hard to count on someone actually having Excel.

 

Totally agree, but I don't really like the Google Docs spreadsheet tool. Whole new set of shortcuts and functions to memorize. I am going to make this model into its own interactive web-based tool once I have it finished and get feedback from folks. I'll work on converting it to Google in the next few days, but some of the functionality doesn't carry over so it isn't exactly plug-n-play.

For now, if anyone happens to be interested in taking a gander, download the .zip Excel version at your own risk . I'm not a virus sending kind of guy, promise. Just a nerd who stays up too late making dumb stuff like this and spraying things with Plasti Dip.

EDIT: Done. See link in second post.

 

See link for Google spreadsheet version. I had to make it 'editable' by all because the whole point is that it is dynamic. So if you change assumptions around, try to make an effort to change them back when you are done (can just keep ctrl+z'ing to do so).

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/...Gc&usp=sharing

 

You can set named ranges, and then protect them, leaving part of the document open for editing.

 

Issue is that I want people to edit the inputs/assumption - it is the point of the dynamic model. I don't expect people to mess with the formulas or charts, just the blue text inputs. Right now I have it set up to compare an RX-8 to a 2005 Subaru WRX, so I am just requesting that people try to revert to these original inputs after they are done experimenting. So if you change the gear ratios, weight, horsepower, tire radius, etc, just try to change it back after. But I'll periodically check it and re-adjust as necessary.

 

I also plasti-dipped my wheels. Never wore out...until I had tires dismounted and mounted. So now the outer edge of the rims are silver.

Only other complaint is that the textured finish is a magnet for brake dust - the wheels end up brown after 1 week.