New (to me) 2006 RX8 - couple questions
 

Attachment 288595

2006 RX8 Touring with 48k miles

It was taken to the dealer every 3-5k miles for maintenance, but there was nothing major aside from fluid changes. So I have a BHR ignition kit and new paper air filter on the way. I'll also check the grounds and clean the MAF and ESS when installing those.

The car is absolutely amazing, but I'm having a little bit of a tougher time driving it compared to my old Miata. Even with 204k miles on the Miata, it's still strong enough to start moving with just the clutch and no gas. And it doesn't bog down in 2nd gear at slow speeds. I can't seem to do the same in the RX8.

Is this normal for the car or do you think my idle is a little weak? I'm hoping the tuneup will make it run stronger.

Nope, that is totally normal. I have had 2 Miatas as well, and it is far harder to stall a Miata than an RX-8. The Miata makes more torque at that RPM and has to move much less weight, with an approximately similar clutch grab. You will have to learn how far up to engage the clutch and at what rate, but I typically bumped the revs to around 1,500 and smoothly engaged the clutch while using the gas to keep the revs about there until the clutch was fully engaged. Happens quick and it becomes 2nd nature, but you can't do what you describe in an RX-8.

On the low RPM bog, same thing. The RX-8 has NO power down low. It starts being sufficient for around town casual driving at about 3,000rpm, starts picking up at 4,000, and doesn't hit torque peak until 5,000. You drive this engine VERY differently.

Thank you that's reassuring. I guess it'll just take some getting used to