Currently contemplating on buying this RX8.
2005 Mazda RX8 Manual

Was wondering, anything in particular that I should be looking for in regards to maintenance. I know checking the oil, getting a test drive, looking over visible fluids. I"ve done some research on how to maintain a rotary engine, just figured if there is anything else i should be looking for.

 

https://www.rx8club.com/new-member-f...t-here-202454/


That one is overpriced, but get a compression test before purchase... An example was posted earlier today of why you should: https://www.rx8club.com/new-member-f...5/#post4571345

 

Thanks for the heads up and new potential owners start here section. Is it weird that after reading through all the maintenance and tedious things I have to do with an RX8 that it makes me want one more lol?

 

So I went to check out the car today, heres a short video I put together of it. RX8 at the Dealership - YouTube

Intake and exhaust are aftermarket, and it started right up after sitting for a few days because of the snow. I read RIWWP's Potential Owners section and was ready with questions to ask the dealer. Apparently they havn't compression tested it and didn't seem interested in doing so either. He told me the lowest he'd go is $6999 opposed to $7500.

Otherwise, the car "sounds" healthy, and looks great. Everything electrical works, rotors havn't been changed in lord knows how long, along with the fluids I'm sure. I'm thinking of letting this one pass due to the unsure factors but just wanted to know what anyone else thought?

 

Generally the rule of thumb is to walk if they won't let you take it for a compression test.

There are caviates, but given the price on that anyway, pass on it.

Put it this way: That is more than I sold mine for a year ago with less mileage on the chassis, 10,000 on a new motor with confirmed compression numbers, entire cooling system brand new, brakes new, all fluids new, brand new clutch and a few other bits. Add in the fact that they won't let you take it for a compression test and it's not even worth considering. I'd offer them ~$4k if the motor turns out to be original (call MNAO) and the hot start is about as fast as the cold start, and I'd still insist on at least a 3 day warranty so i can take it for a compression test immediately.

 

Good car choice! Though I wanted to say, buy a 2009+ if you can. They are less trouble =).