RotaryP7

Since some RX-8's come w/o the sunroof option (base, some sport models).. I was wondering, has anyone here added a custom sunroof to a base-type 8? It would have to be the "tilt & slide" sunroof but could it be done? Just some random question..

mysql101

the roof is curved, not flat. it's really not a good idea.

if I could. I'd have bought my car without a sunroof to begin with.

CarAndDriver

When I was looking for my 8, I came across a used silver 8 that had a sunroof installed by the dealer. I never saw it in person though.

RotaryP7

Your saying the factory sunroof on 8's isn't really a good idea? Or the aftermarket; custom roofs?

mysql101

i don't think aftermarket is a good idea. the oem glass roof also curves... but you lose a few inches of headroom because of it.

CarAndDriver

You have to be really careful since the roof sheet metal curves on the 8. So the sunroof has to fit well and it may look funny since it is not a curvy piece of glass that matches like the stock sunroof.

lurch519

DONT DO IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

there is a thread on here somewhere from at least 2 years ago about someone who bought an 8, but one of her stipulations to the dealer was that it had to have a sunroof. dealer couldnt find one, so they installed an aftermarket one

a, wind noise was horrific, couldnt even use it.

b, because of the way the 8 does not have an actual b pillar, there are a couple structural members running across the roof, which had to be cut to install said sunroof, which if the car ever got in an accident, would probably cause a lot of damage and possible injury to occupants.

found the thread using the search

https://www.rx8club.com/showthread.p...market+sunroof

CarAndDriver

^ What a fascinating thread. I am glad that it worked out for the poster. Don't get an aftermarket sunroof!

dtorre

`

RotaryP7

Haha. Uhh.. Well. Wow.. Interesting story..

Phantom Menace

The OEM sunroof has two "bulges" on the sides and is slightly flat in the middle. This matches the curves on the roof. Any aftermarket sunroof would have to be pretty small to go in between the two curves. IMHO, I thought about a custom sunroof for my Nissan but for around $2k, it's just not worth it.

Stavesacre21

the price of a GOOD aftermarket sunroof (electric tilt/slide) teamed with the inevitable offset of the rx-8's double bubble roof doesn't add up to a worthwhile investment.

I'd also have to say after reading some of the other replies that it's really, really not a good idea.

On the upside, the sunroof takes out about 2 more inches of headroom...so i'm sure your sitting more comfortable than I in the 8. (6'1")

RotaryP7

Well, I'm 6'2..
Anyway, I found some threads which some aftermarket sunroofs pretty much worked out..
Heres one..
https://www.rx8club.com/showthread.p...highlight=roof

9krpmrx8

iTrader: (46)

Looks good. I would like to see the sunroof that goes back into the roof. I have a factory roof but would like to see how they do it. I would say all of this depends on the quality of the installer and fit and finish.

CarAndDriver

I wouldn't do it...just wait till your next car.

shazbot28

iTrader: (2)

You simply couldn't 9krmrx8.... Unless they cut through the virtual b pillars. Which would make your structure integrity unsafe.

lurch519

hmmm, im 6'7" and im quite comfortable in the 8

Elara

Guys, read what shazbot wrote, and then read it again. And then go read that thread again that lurch posted. Specifically this post of Mandy's:

There is simply no way to put in an aftermarket sunroof without seriously compromising the safety of the car.

CarAndDriver

If I was Mazda NA, I would not give them a letter either. If they did, they would be held responsible along with the delership.

RotaryP7

So this would mean that the base/sport 8 has a different type of roof structure that can't be cut or opened? Isn't it the same car just with an opening in the top?

Stavesacre21

good posture has always been a big deal to me...i don't prefur to recline at 45 degrees when I drive either. I don't wanna go as far as to say that i sit up at 90 degrees when i drive, but unless i recline somewhat, my hair is always brushing the roofline.

not saying you coudn't fit in the car, but that you have to make way for the car, not the opposite...as the car should be making way for you.

also, do you have a factory sunroof/power seat?

lurch519

yes to both. power seat and sunroof.

VmanX

i have a custom sunroof on my base model 8. At the time, that was the only model i could afford, but then added on xenon lights, the appearance package, and a sunroof as the days went by. It was ideally made for curved roofs and works great. There is no noise, rattling, etc, and actually gives extra head room. It was professionally installed by a sunroof company in MD with a lifetime warranty, and did not compromise the crossmembers that everyone was concerned about. Overall, I am completely satisfied w/ the install and have recommended some fellow 8 members in the area w/o a sunroof to have theirs installed there as well. Price came out to $750US

Here are some b4 and after pics:
<img src="http://x7f.xanga.com/fa5d270704c31116226702/m83277733.jpg">
<img src="http://x4a.xanga.com/ad1d5a0704230116226661/m83277694.jpg">
<img src="http://x14.xanga.com/7e8d530104230116226680/m83277713.jpg">

9krpmrx8

iTrader: (46)

Here, let me fix that

9krpmrx8

iTrader: (46)

But do you have any close ups? I would like to see how it fits. Good workmanship is amazing.