I am close to purchasing a car for graduation, and I've spent countless months on this forum trying to understand and read up on this car and this is my first choice.

Right now I'm debating between the finding a 2004 or going and getting a 2005, I know there isn't really a difference between the two models.

Anyways, this is what I'm looking to do to my RX-8.

OEM front air dam with Mazdaspeed side skirts ~1500-1600 from Trussville Mazda, Clear corners and fender strakes ~250
Tinting Windows ~$200-$250
RX-8 door pillars ~$60.
Billet Grill ~$15
Painting Rotary's ~15

And then later on in the future, I probably wouldn't get them right away, but the OEM 18" chrome wheels, thought I saw someone post that he got his triple plated chromed for $550 on here.

So as you see, I have basically mapped out my mods for my exterior, and I am probably not going to do much mods on the interior so I'm trying to get it as nice as I can. (leather, heated seats, etc) So I ask you guys this, should I purchase a 2005 RX-8 with the Grand Touring package and that's all? No other options added to it since I'm basically going to add all the exterior mods myself. And if so, do you think I'd be able to pick one up for around $28,000. That is basically the max I'm looking to spend on it. I am in San Jose, California so if you guys could give me some information on dealers I'd appreciate that too.

Let me know, thanks in advance.

 

bump for some answers please.

 

If you're looking at the '05's, it may be tough to get a GT package for $28k right now, since it's still early in the year. Consider that the manual 8, without options, starts at $27,435 MSRP. The GT package adds another $4000. Not that you would pay that much, but your leverage is going to be a lot less than with an '04. For your price range, I'd look for an '04, not an '05.

Keep in mind that you can save money off the bat by getting some of these accessories for cheaper. Dennis at DLS Customs sells the fender strakes for $90.

 

Another thing: As far as the wheels go, you could cut corners there as well and polish them yourself.