I'm looking at a few s1 rx8's right now, and one of the guys im talking to sent a video of a hot and a cold start, was hoping I could get an opinion on that one since its a bit of a ways away, im also looking at a dealer at a couple on tuesday where i plan to test drive them, they seem to be overpriced especially for what they are, so im not likely to buy from them. But what are some key things to look out for before deciding on, I know watching the fluids startup and exhaust are some of the big things, but what about like common rust spots, or other things I might miss without specifically looking for them? Any help is appreciated, I've been looking into getting a rotary for a while, and on tuesday im hoping to decide for sure on whether its what I want, ive got a bit of an idea of the maintenance and stuff required to own one of these, though I can't say im fully aware of it all till I have one.

Also when should I order the parts for a rebuild if I do get it? Just as soon as possible and try and get it to a known condition, wait for certain signs?

Thanks

 

There's a New & Potential Owner thread that discusses this in detail. Do a (rotary) compression test, thats the only conclusive diagnostic of engine health.
I don't recommend you order parts or rebuild yourself at all, there are too many variables that first-timers miss. Get a known good rebuilt from a professional, itll save you time and money in the long run. There is a number of reliable ones around the world and U.S.

There are really 2 strategies: get a good body with a blown engine for peanuts and put in a fresh engine, or get one with a recently replaced engine from a known rebuilder.

 

I already plan on the compression test before making any purchases, also I was trying to upload the videos the seller sent of the cold and hot starts as one of the main reasons for the post but I guess they didn't attach to the post for some reason, I'll keep that in mind about rebuilding, maybe find someone trying to get rid of a junk motor and tear it apart learn how it works and all that rather than just wing it on the motor in the car. Also I live close enough to atkins that they are the obvious choice for getting work done and have been looking through their site aswell as different posts on here and elsewhere about rotary maintenance, care, and such.