Considering purchasing an RX8
 

Hi Ive been looking for a new. (not brand new but different then my current) And I basically am stuck on a certain used RX8 and a brand new mustang v6. (the v8 would be too much on insurance not to mention more money). Both very nice looking, both Red, mustang with black stripes. Although the mustang is new and has 0 miles, I do like the RX8 more but i am afraid of the whole rotary thing. i've read up pretty good on it, adding oil frequently (1k-2k miles - 1quart), and never turning the rx8 off cold (is that the only time the rx8 wont start? after you turn it off cold or are there other issues?)

This would also be a year round car, and for the rx8 most ppl say just winter tires and not driving stupidly will be enough in snow. others say sand bags in the trunk too. but i would assume the mustang is just as bad in snow?

Since this is an RX8 forum i would expect the rx8 to be favored, but that is what i favor too, just a little afraid about the Rotary. So a little input on experiance with these cars i would appreciate, thanks!

P.S. the rx8 is a 04 with 36k mi (automatic), and ive heard about recalls with these cars, what are chances the car wasnt brought back for problems fixed or..will i have problems with this particular model?

IF you buy it from a dealer it has to be fixed.

If not you bring it in and they have to fix the recalls for free.

Don't worry about it.

We have very few parts that move.

You can get a new engine for the price of top end valve job on a piston car.

Just test drive it and check it out. If it's fine

Then buy it.

You know the automatics make less power than the manual versions right? Test drive both cars. Do you live somewehre with a lot of twisty roads? The more you enjoy a car that handles well, the more tempted by the 8 you should be. But take what I say with a grain of salt. I dont own an RX-8.

A big part of winter driving is tire choice. I suspect the Mustang would be better in the winter simply because it probably comes with all season tires, wheras most RX-8's come with summer tires. Having all season or better tires are CRUCIAL for driving in any sort of snow no matter what type of drivetrain you have. I'd take a viper on snow tires over an Evo on summer rubber.

May not want to get it if it is a Auto. Might be a little upset at the lack of power.

We don't know how much snow your going to get if you don't add your location..

Well from what I have seen online about car recall's, we are not that bad.
Its the 04' and 05's that had the major probs. But all that should be worked out by now with the 06.
The Rotary is a sweet smooth ride built for the track kinda car so don't fear it. When I first got my car I was on here looking about never owned a wankle before. After I got my car some old dude was like hey thats a RX! I had one long time ago. Good strong car but had to many probs with them. Well my car had been running strong. Even after 2 Engines. Still strong.
The V8 will prob do about the same on gas lol but the weight will not be kind on the brakes.
See for you'r self LINK!
Driving any RWD car in the snow sucks and is stupid.
I would test drive a AT and a MT so you can get the feel of them and see what best fits you. In the end you can always go FI.
The MPG wont make a dif when it comes to AT or MT. Me and some frineds just went to SSX. We all got about the same MPG:rolleyes:

MA, new england
 

/bump

hey bumping thread to tell ya that i live in New England (go pats and red sox!), someone asked because it is relevant. The winters and harsh and very cold for the most part. I live close the the water.

So i know snow tires will be necessary, but will i need to go further then just that? Someone suggested sand bags in the trunk?

Talking about it being very cold here, are there problems just starting the rx8 just because its cold? or is it that there are only starting problems if you turn the car off cold. because they are two really different things.

My main concern about the car is that i don't want to get this car and then it just doesn't start for whatever reason.

its an 04 AT w/ 36k mi

I just bought an 04 auto with 45k on it.. Its for my fiance to drive but man is it a fun car.. I have had v8 mustangs (99 and 02) and would chose the rx8 over them.. a v6 isnt even a comparison. Slower, handles like shit (Compared to rx8, although everything does lol). I did just buy the rx8 though so it could be a nightmare car, not sure.. but as far as a driving aspect the rx8 will rap the v6 in EVERY way