GT or R3
 

Hi all. I am debating between an R3 and a GT series II . I like the styling of the R3 but I'm having a hard time finding one. Much easier to find a GT.

Forgive the newbie question, but what are your thoughts on me buying a GT and then making a few changes to get it to look like An R3?

The suspension is not a factor for me, and neither are the Ricaro seats. And for what it's worth, I'm not too concerned about the sunroof either. What I do like about the R3 is the styling on the sides and the 19 inch wheels and black rims

If buying a GT and making these mods is a good option, what body kit do you recommend to get the skirt to look like they are three? And what rims and wheels do you recommend?

Thanks everyone for any help you can offer! :-)

You can buy a GT and just add the R3 front bumper and side skirts. And the wheels as well if you must. The GT comes with a lot more options and a better interior as well IMO. The Recaros look cool but they are not that comfortable unless you are a little shit.

Thanks. Is there a particular set of bumpers/skirts you could point me to that replicate the look of the R3 ones and work for the GT? Thank you!

I have an R3 and could not be any happier! If you can't find an R3, just be patient... You'll find one soon!

Keep in mind, R3's only came in 3 different colors... Red, Blue, and Black. And GT's didn't come in the Blue or Black (Brilliant Black Clearcoat).

I don't follow you. You're saying the GT didn't come in black? Or are you saying the GT is a different black than the R3?

Ahh, I see: R3 is brilliant black clearcoat, and GT is sparkling black mica.

Well, that throws a wrench into things, as I really like the color of the black R3 I saw.

Any particular thoughts on this one? I've asked for compression #s, by the way.
The price seems high, but maybe this is reasonable for an R3 in (seemingly) good condition?

2009 Mazda RX-8 R3, $17,382 - Cars.com

Don't know about Atlanta, but in my area the price is at least $5,000 too high.
Looks like a nice car though.

Right.

Sorry, I knew I was being a bit confusing!

I don't know, 12k for an R3 would be a steal...Although, 17k is a little on the high side.

Looks like a 14k-15k car if you ask me.

I have a R3 in pearl white ;]

The Crystal White Pearl RX-8 R3 is sexiest stock rotary ever.

I do wish it came with nav like the Japanese version though. Sun roof wouldn't be bad either.
BUT For what it's worth I love the R3 alot. And having a white R3 is like having a shiny rare Pokemon (rare of the rares!)

Having tried both I DO want to say though, GT seats are way more comfortable compared to the R3 Recaros

I have a white r3 that I am selling...problem is I'm in Canada

Another CWP R3 in close proximity! not as rare around here! :lol:

Wait until you see a black mica in person. It's the greatest car color ever conceived IMHO.

Another white R3 owner here as well... but I've always loved the black micas. I'm a fairly slim guy (5'11" 170 lbs) and the recaros in the R3 fit me like a glove. R3 > GT in my opinion

Let me ask what is kind of a ridiculous question (but if I keep talking about the RX8 with my immediate friends, they're going to strangle me!): If you found a really solid, well-maintained RX8 R3 that was perfect —*except that it was in red instead of black —*would you go ahead with it (assuming you preferred black)? In other words, would you get the "perfect" RX8 if it were in the wrong color?

Is there a particular set of bumpers/skirts you could point me to that replicate the look of the R3 ones and work for the GT? Thank you!

Absofuckinglutely!

Mario,

It sounds like you really want the Series 2 (I agree!). And it also sounds like you really want some sort of Black R3 or GT... To me it sounds like you should just wait for the right one to pop up.

Here's some useful info on R3's and stuff..

U.S. Sales Numbers:
2009: 555
2010: 263
2011: 132

Total: 950

Red was produced in 09, 10, 11. Blue was 09, 10. Black was just 09.

So I think it's safe to say Red is the most common R3 color out there. Blue next.. And then Black. Out of 950 R3's in the U.S., I would guess around 150-200 were Black. So the chances of you finding a good cond., Black, low miles etc. is prob pretty slim... But trust me, they're out there. So keep looking!!

Wow, so there are no 2011 Black RX8 R3s? Well, that's why I can't find one!
I love the look of red. Yes, I like black better, but I do like red (yours looks awesome). Think I'll go for this Red 2011 R3 I have my eye on!

Nice!! You won't be disappointed in getting a Series 2 at all.. Especially an R3!

I have a White 09 GT and love it. I was originally looking for a Blue R3 and a red one showed up here in Denver. If you haven't a Red one in person, it is nice. It has gold flake in the paint so if you wanted bronze rims it would look great. Also, the seats are only for skinny bastards (I am not fat mind you, but 6'1" 210 lbs and it was tight) so that is something to consider. The draw back of the GT is with a sunroof, the head room is tight. It shouldn't be too hard to replicate the look if you get a GT. I would make sure you drive an R3 before you get one. After driving that red on I decided the GT was a better option for me (seats).