Woah is all I can say. Picked one up since it was super clean and low miles and came my way. Wasn't a car I would ever consider especially as I am disgusted looking at the amount of rust on mazdas on the roads around here. My only experience with a Mazda prior to this is a gtx - which is a totally different kinda amazing car.

Suffice to say I am blown away and I've stopped driving my other supposedly nice cars completely. The handling, response etc is amazing. Effortless. You think and it does. And it's even all stock. Damn ! Such underrated beautiful cars !

Sorry had to vent.

Any tips on basic simple mods to improve the car (if its even possible) appreciated.

 

Welcome to the Community and fun.

 

Welcome to the disease is more like it.

 

Welcome to the addiction.
Be sure to read the New Owner Stickies, most everything you need to know is there.
#1 mod imo is cat delete.
The BHR midpipe is probably the consensus best choice. (I have one)
Other popular mods are ignition kits that replace the suspect OEM coils featuring GM coils (BHR) or Mercury IGN-1A coils (SakeBomb).
The Sohn adapter is a good choice that injects clean 2 stroke oil into the housings instead of dirty motor oil.
Cold air intakes are popular, the AEI is best, avoid the K&N.
Oil catch cans are not really a mod, but a good idea.
Plenty of other ideas in the performance threads.
Have fun!

 

Welcome!! What year and trim level of 8 did you get? Do you know any history on the car? Pics are a near must, lol.

 

It's a 2004, 6 speed. Don't know the specifics, sorry I am Mazda illiterate - the only Mazda I had prior is from another century. It has a bose speaker system if that helps identify.

 

You left out cooling. It isn't sexy, but it is essential to make sure the cooling system is in top condition.

 

I have an aluminum Mishimoto radiator in my 04 and I really like it! Check them out if you get time!

 

Here's some reading for you:

RX8Club.com - Announcements in Forum : New Member Forum

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

https://www.rx8club.com/new-member-f...ot-8-a-202548/

https://www.rx8club.com/rx-8-faq-9/faq-update-63747/

If you live somewhere warm or planning on tracking the car, I recommend cooling system upgrades. I went with a CSF 3164 radiator; it's a direct replacement and probably the biggest you can get in a S1 without having to modify the battery and airbox trays.

 

I've got the Koyo but it's only a single pass, but it is larger than stock and larger tanks help, regardless. CSF is double pass, which is nice.