Alixdone

I absolutely loved my 2005 rx8. I bought it about a year ago with 60,000 miles on it. It's seemed to me to be in great condition but the engin blew up on me right around 66,000 miles. I plan on buying a new rx8 soon. So, my questions. What was the best year (in your opinion) for the cars? Do they really have as many problems as people claim? What is a good mileage to look for? Thank you!!

Ber1n

If I was doing everything over again, I would buy a rolling Rx-8 with a bad engine or even a removed engine for 3000 - 4000 dollars. You can get a really nice body for around $3000 last time I checked.


I would spend another $3000 (and maybe some change) on a rebuilt engine from a reputable builder. For $6,000 + some change for install fees if you don't do it yourself, that's a pretty good deal.

In terms of which year Rx-8 is most reliable, it's probably going to be the S-2 Rx-8.
In my opinion, the problems are a little overblown. On a brand new engine, if you follow basic maintenance procedures + premix, you should be able to reach 100k at which point you'll need to spend another $3,000 for a new engine. If you do it yourself, cut the cost by 50%-66% but you also assume all the responsibility for failure.

Lastly, if you don't go the route I suggested, I would patiently wait for a S2 Rx-8 , R3, and have it compression tested. If the numbers are below spec and it's in warranty, I would haggle the price down, buy it, and fight mazda tooth and nail to get a reman engine.

CelestialGryphon

iTrader: (1)

You can get a shell for cheaper than that if you know how to haggle. I've got two on my local craigslist for 2k and 3500.

Jazer

You can definitely get a decent body/bad engine Rx8 for 2k range (often even less if it's an auto)...

Most reliable would generally be an s2 (2009+) because they made some revisions that HELPED though do not rely on this, they suffer from the same types of failures, there is just an extra safeguard in place really.

Mileage doesn't really matter, if its on it's original engine less is better, of course, but they can fail at any point, depending on how it was cared for previously. My 2004 has 86k miles and I bought right after its 3rd engine (first failed at 40k, second at 80k)... If you have access to a good rotary builder in your area, buying one that is already bad and having it rebuilt would be a great option if you are not in a pinch to be in a running car. The price you pay for the car and the rebuild would be on par with one that is running... but now you are assured a fresh rebuild/engine that will last a long time with proper care.

CelestialGryphon

iTrader: (1)

Jazer is correct, as one of the $2k ones is an automatic GT around me. Leather interior and all the nice bits but flappy paddle boo.

Nine13

iTrader: (1)

The R3 is the better version but still has problems

Wilki1

Premix? What's this?

Wilki1

I had a 2006. Then a 2005. I now own a s2 (series 2) meaning 2009-2011. It's great. But I did have to replace the engine at 33k miles. Mine was a one owner. The owner before me was the Mazda cooperation. I assume they rode it hard and discarded it to a dealership when they were done. My engine was still under warranty so no cost to me. However, I do plan to replace the replacement engine before I reach 100k miles. It just is what it is. Engines come. Engines go. But I am confident the S2 is a better buy all around. Newer has better gadgets and the R3 ( which I own) is fantastic.

CelestialGryphon

iTrader: (1)

A tertiary lubricant that's put in the fuel system to assist with lubrication of the engine. I use Idemetsu. Works great.