mrwong24

Hi! I'm a new member and hopefully a potential own of my first 8. I know I will probably get torn apart for asking this but I really do not know and I want to hear an honest answer from some experts. For the 2004 and 5 RX8's how can you tell between the 192 HP and the 231 HP models? I know there is the "Speed" models and what not but is there anyway to physically tell? I'm sorry for the stupid question but I really just want an honest answer!

Thank you!

khaira93

2004 RX8 4-Port (Automatic) has the lower horsepower.
2004 RX8 6-Port (Manual) has the higher horsepower.

If you want an automatic, go for the 2005 model and up(someone correct me if I am incorrect). Although I personally recommend getting a Manual Transmission RX8. As far as physical differences go, you cannot tell a difference between and 04/05 etc, unless you have comparing shinkas and S2s, etc.

RIWWP

iTrader: (2)

The 192HP vs 231HP ratings were used in Europe, and I don't believe Europe has an Automatic transmission

So rather than base it on transmission, since I'm not sure where the OP is...

The difference between the power levels is based on whether the engine is a 4 port or a 6 port.

The easiest way to tell for sure which engine it is, is to pop the hood and take a look at the intake runners into the engine. Look at the black plastic upper intake manifold in these two pictures. The top is a 4-port, the bottom is a 6-port. Notice the number of runners on each? See the the two additional lower runners on the 6-port? That's what you look for.







Beyond that, if they have an automatic transmission or a 5-speed transmission in your area, those two transmissions had a lower rev limit due to transmission reasons, and got the lower power 4-port as a result (the added runners only helping at really high RPM), so you might be able to tell by transmission type. But popping the hood is the only for-sure method to tell.

mrwong24

I'm actually originally from the Chicago area in the states! So is there a power difference there due to emissions? The rotary technology fascinates me so I am really just trying to get all of my facts straight before I go after anything!

NotAPreppie

The power difference is due to a different engine being used. The 6-port engine in the MT breathes better and has a higher redline than the 4-port engine in the early autos. Later autos got a 6-port engine but it was still less powerful.

As a former 2005 MT owner in Chicago, I recommend the MT.