current s2k owner debating whether to buy rx8...
#26
Registered User
Thread Starter
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: Atlanta, GA
Posts: 14
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by Deslock
[*]needs a quart of oil added every 2k miles
#27
jersey fresh
Join Date: Dec 2005
Location: Boston, MA
Posts: 3,688
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by MrXpSyChO
really? do most people add this quart by themselves? you just add another quart without getting an oil change?
#28
Here is another one.
Better ride quality.
Better ride quality.
Originally Posted by Deslock
I've driven the 2.0L S2k a few times. If you've been reading the forum all week, none of this should be new to you... however, vs the S2k, the RX8:
So both are balanced, responsive, RWD cars that are a blast to drive, but the RX8 is slower and not as edgy... it's more-or-less a watered down version of the S2k.
As always, test drive before you buy. Good luck!
- is a bit slower
- lacks the 2.0L's VTEC switchover "kick"
- has an excellent, but slightly inferior shifter (my 3 favorites are the S2k, Miata, and RX8)
- has lower limits
- is less prone to snap oversteer/is more forgiving at its limits
- is happier to rev
- is smoother
- is cheaper
- is more comfortable
- seats four
- has a decent trunk
- consumes more fuel
- needs a quart of oil added every 2k miles
- is more susceptible to flooding if you don't follow its cold-engine shutdown procedure (when its engine is cold, rev it to 3k RPM for 10 sec before shutoff)
So both are balanced, responsive, RWD cars that are a blast to drive, but the RX8 is slower and not as edgy... it's more-or-less a watered down version of the S2k.
As always, test drive before you buy. Good luck!
#29
WWFSMD?
Join Date: Jul 2003
Location: Massachusetts, USA
Posts: 597
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by Raptor75
Here is another one.
Better ride quality.
Better ride quality.
Originally Posted by MrXpSyChO
really? do most people add this quart by themselves? you just add another quart without getting an oil change?
This is normal for rotaries, which consume oil by design. Some people complain about it, but I never understood what the big deal is... there is 1.8 quarts between high and low on the dipstick, you don't need to constantly top it off or anything.
#30
Its all about Style...
Join Date: May 2006
Location: South of Boston, MA
Posts: 3,337
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by MrXpSyChO
really? do most people add this quart by themselves? you just add another quart without getting an oil change?
#31
Originally Posted by Deslock
- needs a quart of oil added every 2k miles
- is more susceptible to flooding if you don't follow its cold-engine shutdown procedure (when its engine is cold, rev it to 3k RPM for 10 sec before shutoff)
Also the shutdown procedure you listed will not prevent the car from flooding. If your car doesn't flood after performing it, it is only coincidence that the car started up again afterwards. Reving it for 10 sec doesn't warm the car up enough to matter.
#32
Some observations:
The S2000 is slightly faster 0-60 & 1/4 but you have to thrash it to hit those high RPM's. The RX8 is so smooth that mazda had to put in a beeper at 8500RPM to remind you "hey stupid, shift" at 9400, where it hits the rev limiter. The engine on the 8 is so smooth you can sometime's forget where your RPM's are. The 2000 weighs less and has slightly more hp. Power is decent on the 8, 0-60 under 6 sec's is not exactly slow, but many people don't feel the pull or the rush as the 8's power is delivered so smoothly that it is deceptive how fast you get up there. YOu will not feel the vtec pull, but it goes.
The S2000 is slightly better handling but you have to ride the edge hard to get it, while the 8 is much more driver friendly, allowing you to push up to the edge and know where it is. The clutch is light and requires little effort. The shifts are short and smooth with a knotchy feel to it. 1st gear goes almost to 40 mph, 2-67, 3-90+, 4-120+, 5-154. 6th is an overdrive to save gas but it will pull decent at highway speeds, but not overwhelmingly. Nothing like going 70 on the highway in 6th, drop to 3rd and punch it. You will get your torque.
Both are so simular, that you could almost consider the S2000 a RX8 convertable, so the real question is, can you do without a convertable?
The S2000 is slightly faster 0-60 & 1/4 but you have to thrash it to hit those high RPM's. The RX8 is so smooth that mazda had to put in a beeper at 8500RPM to remind you "hey stupid, shift" at 9400, where it hits the rev limiter. The engine on the 8 is so smooth you can sometime's forget where your RPM's are. The 2000 weighs less and has slightly more hp. Power is decent on the 8, 0-60 under 6 sec's is not exactly slow, but many people don't feel the pull or the rush as the 8's power is delivered so smoothly that it is deceptive how fast you get up there. YOu will not feel the vtec pull, but it goes.
The S2000 is slightly better handling but you have to ride the edge hard to get it, while the 8 is much more driver friendly, allowing you to push up to the edge and know where it is. The clutch is light and requires little effort. The shifts are short and smooth with a knotchy feel to it. 1st gear goes almost to 40 mph, 2-67, 3-90+, 4-120+, 5-154. 6th is an overdrive to save gas but it will pull decent at highway speeds, but not overwhelmingly. Nothing like going 70 on the highway in 6th, drop to 3rd and punch it. You will get your torque.
Both are so simular, that you could almost consider the S2000 a RX8 convertable, so the real question is, can you do without a convertable?
#33
Registered User
Thread Starter
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: Atlanta, GA
Posts: 14
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
like i said earlier, yea, i can live without the convertible top. i got sick of it. i think i would love the convertible top in like california, but i don't feel the need for it in atlanta. summer gets too hot and winters get too cold. yea, i might sound like a wuss, but i don't need the convertible top. i think the rx8 will be much more convenient for me than a s2000. we'll see after the test drive!
#34
I think you will like the 8. Better interior, more room, real rear seats, decent truck, good looks, and more refinement. Comfortable front seats. In winter, put snow tires on it and it drives great due to low torque and 50/50 weight.
Some advise, get at least the sports option. It gives you bigger wheels, upgrade suspension, stability control, and traction control. Definitely worht it...
Good luck...
Some advise, get at least the sports option. It gives you bigger wheels, upgrade suspension, stability control, and traction control. Definitely worht it...
Good luck...
#35
Registered User
Thread Starter
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: Atlanta, GA
Posts: 14
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
if i do get it, i will buy it with full options. ^_^
gosh, now i can't wait to test drive it!
just wondering, is there a big difference between the older models and the new 05/06?
i'll probably buy the new 06, but i was just wondering because there were talks about recalls and stuff all throughout the forums...
gosh, now i can't wait to test drive it!
just wondering, is there a big difference between the older models and the new 05/06?
i'll probably buy the new 06, but i was just wondering because there were talks about recalls and stuff all throughout the forums...
#36
Blue By You
Join Date: Jun 2003
Location: Milwaukee
Posts: 8,717
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by MrXpSyChO
if i do get it, i will buy it with full options. ^_^
gosh, now i can't wait to test drive it!
just wondering, is there a big difference between the older models and the new 05/06?
i'll probably buy the new 06, but i was just wondering because there were talks about recalls and stuff all throughout the forums...
gosh, now i can't wait to test drive it!
just wondering, is there a big difference between the older models and the new 05/06?
i'll probably buy the new 06, but i was just wondering because there were talks about recalls and stuff all throughout the forums...
#38
1935 lbs. FTW!
I wouldn't do it, the RX8 is a decent sports car and the extra space is nice but the power and handling of the S2000 is much better. S2000's dyno around 200 rwhp stock and weigh 300 pounds less than the 8, the acceleration difference up top is noticable.
I think you'd miss the S, I have both a 00 S2000 and a 05 RX8 and I drive the S every chance I can.
I think you'd miss the S, I have both a 00 S2000 and a 05 RX8 and I drive the S every chance I can.
#40
I too have been on this fine line dillema with my S2000. I have an 05 S2000 (2.2L) and to think of the depreciation hit just turns me sour, which is why I haven't jumped ship yet.
While I've driven the RX-8 many times, I find that is it a more toned down car (for obvious reasons) for my liking. It is hard to come from something that was already purpose built and factory tuned to a car that trys to do 'everything' with compromises (esp. for those that auto cross and do HPDE lapping sessions).
Yes there is a trade off, as said, you will lose the open road experience. I am trying to enjoy it while I can because nothing compares to those 'perfect summer evenings/nights'. You will lose the "extention/fits like a glove" cockpit feel. The precision snick-snick shifter feel. Honda quality, VTEC, S2000 image, and so forth.
I am awaiting Mazda to give their rotary model more incentives (mid life refresh?) enough to either give up the convertable experience in favor for a rotary experience or to just add it alongside the Honda eventually, like one of the rx-8 members here.
While I've driven the RX-8 many times, I find that is it a more toned down car (for obvious reasons) for my liking. It is hard to come from something that was already purpose built and factory tuned to a car that trys to do 'everything' with compromises (esp. for those that auto cross and do HPDE lapping sessions).
Yes there is a trade off, as said, you will lose the open road experience. I am trying to enjoy it while I can because nothing compares to those 'perfect summer evenings/nights'. You will lose the "extention/fits like a glove" cockpit feel. The precision snick-snick shifter feel. Honda quality, VTEC, S2000 image, and so forth.
I am awaiting Mazda to give their rotary model more incentives (mid life refresh?) enough to either give up the convertable experience in favor for a rotary experience or to just add it alongside the Honda eventually, like one of the rx-8 members here.
#41
WWFSMD?
Join Date: Jul 2003
Location: Massachusetts, USA
Posts: 597
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by mysql101
Also the shutdown procedure you listed will not prevent the car from flooding. If your car doesn't flood after performing it, it is only coincidence that the car started up again afterwards. Reving it for 10 sec doesn't warm the car up enough to matter.
I doubt you have to actually hold it at 3k for 10 seconds... it seems more likely that Mazda picked a longer length of time just to be on the safe side.
#42
WWFSMD?
Join Date: Jul 2003
Location: Massachusetts, USA
Posts: 597
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by CosmosMpower
S2000's dyno around 200 rwhp stock and weigh 300 pounds less than the 8
#43
1.21 Jiggawatts
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Lima, OH
Posts: 1,330
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
While I don't own an S2000, i've been in a buds of mine, whom ironically acquired it the same WEEK I got my 8. From what I could tell, it could pull just a lil more, and that VTECH "2nd wind" is noticable. Another slightly surprising issue was that i found there to be slightly more headroom in the S2K then in the 8...very surprising indeed! I'm almost 6'1", and I can easily fit in the 8, but have to tilt the seat back a hair for max comfort.
However, the engine in the S2K kinda scared me up high...as others put it...it sounded like it would explode. I can't describe the first time I finally took my 8 over 5K, and heard the infamous RX "whine". I loved it! Although toned down in comparison, the whirrrr of the 8 kinda reminded me of the superchager whine you'l hear on higher HP vehicles! The pull up-top isn't weak by any means, but is a steadily rising inclination of speed as opposed to feeling "bursts" of speed as you run up the line.
Give her a drive and come back this way. I've got a vert too, so I know that not having it there when you want it can kinda suck...but I think the advantages are 10-fold. Pick up an 05 for no less the $8K knocked off the MSRP, or walk on them. You'll get a call shortly thereafter
However, the engine in the S2K kinda scared me up high...as others put it...it sounded like it would explode. I can't describe the first time I finally took my 8 over 5K, and heard the infamous RX "whine". I loved it! Although toned down in comparison, the whirrrr of the 8 kinda reminded me of the superchager whine you'l hear on higher HP vehicles! The pull up-top isn't weak by any means, but is a steadily rising inclination of speed as opposed to feeling "bursts" of speed as you run up the line.
Give her a drive and come back this way. I've got a vert too, so I know that not having it there when you want it can kinda suck...but I think the advantages are 10-fold. Pick up an 05 for no less the $8K knocked off the MSRP, or walk on them. You'll get a call shortly thereafter
#44
I didnt read page two and first half of page three so I dont have whats going on, but ironically two of my friends bought used S2000 ( '00 and'01) within a month of my RX8 purchase and I would definitly pick RX8 > S2000. you are basically trading in the convertable top for : 2 extra seats, a real truck, MUCH nicer interior, MUCH nicer Stereo, heated seats, homelink/autodimming mirrow, better road noise.. etc and RX8 also turns as much heads as the S2000
I think the S2000 cool for the 90 days of the year ( I live in Canada) where the weather is perfect, but it is the other 255 days that makes RX8 a much better car ( if you can only own one).
I think the S2000 cool for the 90 days of the year ( I live in Canada) where the weather is perfect, but it is the other 255 days that makes RX8 a much better car ( if you can only own one).
#46
Registered
Me and the wife drive 04 8 and 02 s2k. if you like the s2k you will like the rx8. both almost handles the same. I think of the 8 is a 4dr 2 seater car , because the way it handles. I think think the only thing is the 8 seems more quiet (stock) then a s2k (stock) when high on rpms or at hwy speeds.
Its funny its so easy to compare 8 or s2k vs 350z. but for 8 vs s2k its hard for me. because both are so much alike in handling its.... any how this how i i feel about those 2 cars.
well gl to you.
Its funny its so easy to compare 8 or s2k vs 350z. but for 8 vs s2k its hard for me. because both are so much alike in handling its.... any how this how i i feel about those 2 cars.
well gl to you.
Last edited by alfy28; 06-19-2006 at 09:38 AM.
#47
i love switching into 3rd gear going between 60-70 its so smooth at high rpms and has plenty of power.
i was on a stretch of road late at night single lane and keeping the car at 60 mpg in 3rd at 6k rpm when i came behind a car just had to barely hit the gas and by the time my front end was at their drivers side door i was at 90+ it has very nice pickup but its so smooth u dont even realize u are at 9k rpm.
i cannot stand driving other cars anymore saturday i had my wife my friend his girlfriend and her baby going up to shaver lake so i had to take the navigator and it was just so boring.
also my 13 year old sister had no problem driving my 8 it was her first time driving a stick and i let her drive on our private property its about a mile of driveway she only stalled once and not even on her first try she just got over excited and now wants an 8 as her first car lol
i was on a stretch of road late at night single lane and keeping the car at 60 mpg in 3rd at 6k rpm when i came behind a car just had to barely hit the gas and by the time my front end was at their drivers side door i was at 90+ it has very nice pickup but its so smooth u dont even realize u are at 9k rpm.
i cannot stand driving other cars anymore saturday i had my wife my friend his girlfriend and her baby going up to shaver lake so i had to take the navigator and it was just so boring.
also my 13 year old sister had no problem driving my 8 it was her first time driving a stick and i let her drive on our private property its about a mile of driveway she only stalled once and not even on her first try she just got over excited and now wants an 8 as her first car lol
#48
1.21 Jiggawatts
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Lima, OH
Posts: 1,330
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Originally Posted by limepro
i was on a stretch of road late at night single lane and keeping the car at 60 mpg in 3rd
any specific tips on keeping my 8 at 60MPG?! It MUST be that 3rd gear...it's the efficient gear!
I'd even settle for a 1/3 of that fuel efficiency...
#49
sorry it's late and i dont have time to read over all 4 pages, so hoepfully i dont repeate something that ppl have repeatedly said already...
the rx8 has been called a 4 seat s2000. i own an s2k, and have driven the rx8 considerably. the biggest difference is the rigidity of the car's chassis. the rx8 though very balanced and handles really well, doesn't inspire as much confidence as the s2k due to softer suspension and chassis IMHO. the s2k is more prone to snap oversteer due to a shorter wheelbase.
the rx8 doesn't have the dramatic vtec (not v-tec.....u should know how to spell this if u own the s2k ); it's smooth all the way up to redline.
if u're willing to put up with worse MPG and minor oil consumption (nature of rotaries) and just a less reliable car in general, u'll be happy with the rx8 IMO. it's a better compromise btwn comfort and sportiness than the s2k, however for me, the s2k's more fun to drive, and i have another car for more practical uses.
hope this helps a bit.
the rx8 has been called a 4 seat s2000. i own an s2k, and have driven the rx8 considerably. the biggest difference is the rigidity of the car's chassis. the rx8 though very balanced and handles really well, doesn't inspire as much confidence as the s2k due to softer suspension and chassis IMHO. the s2k is more prone to snap oversteer due to a shorter wheelbase.
the rx8 doesn't have the dramatic vtec (not v-tec.....u should know how to spell this if u own the s2k ); it's smooth all the way up to redline.
if u're willing to put up with worse MPG and minor oil consumption (nature of rotaries) and just a less reliable car in general, u'll be happy with the rx8 IMO. it's a better compromise btwn comfort and sportiness than the s2k, however for me, the s2k's more fun to drive, and i have another car for more practical uses.
hope this helps a bit.
Last edited by fusionchicken; 06-20-2006 at 02:18 AM.