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RX-8 Discussion General discussion about the RX-8 that doesn't fit in one of the specialty forums.

A few questions:

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Old 09-23-2003, 12:58 AM
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A few questions:

I am thinking of buying an RX-8, but before I even go look at one I have a few questions:

1. I am 6' 1" tall about 250lbs, will I fit comfortably? (It looks small on the outside)

2. How is the AT version? I have never had a MT vehicle (belive it or not) and I live in NJ which has heavy traffic(probibly the reason). I don't think I could drive the MT version, so im pretty much stuck with AT. Is it really much more sluggish then the MT? Anyone have any 0-60 and 1/4 times on an auto, just so I can compare.

3. Do you think it is a better choice then a 3-series bimmer or C series Mercedes for someone who wants a good daily driver, that will turn a few heads, and is a little sporty?

4. Anything you regret about it or think needs to be changed(no matter how simple)?

5. Should I wait a year or two?

6. What would it cost to buy a New RX-8 AT in Winning blue with the GT package and nav system? Would it cost more then the MSRP?

Thank you
Old 09-23-2003, 01:10 AM
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i am buying an rx8, but id not even consider it with the auto. the power is ok with the stick.

bimmers just drive great, more expensive, but really nicely tuned steering especially. however, boring and no LSD in the non-M as i recall.

also drove the 350Z manual and auto, two seats, nice power, but the auto saps the character. much more crude car than the rx8.

also driven an 2003 mustang cobra, wild ride on the boost, and a Z06 and regular C5 vette, lots of power, nice car. all the modern mustangs are very nice. the Z28 camaro has a nice motor, but its a bit frail feeling in build quality.

the rx8 is more than a little sporty, for that id definitely drive a 3 series BMW, really a nice car. mercedes, zzz, wake me up when its over.

james

ps oh, despite my writing style, im 39, driven or raced LOTS of super cars, teach autocross and have one of the fastest street-driven autox cars in nor cal. and i am here to say the rx8 ROCKS. :D
Old 09-23-2003, 04:42 AM
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The GT package is like almost 4 grand
The Nav system is yet another 2 grand
if you are money-tight, it is not worth it
If you live in foggy, weathery conditions, maybe you do need it
for the heated seats, heated mirrors and fog lights
If you live in hot desert, you don't need any of that
The power seat should be fun
But is not really a necessity
So just weigh your options nicely...
Old 09-23-2003, 08:13 AM
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Also, you should fit just fine, I find it very comfy and I weigh 230, and I am 6 foot. It seemed real easy for me to slide in, and I still had to move the seat up. So you should be ok to fit in it.

I also never drop a stick before this car, and found it easy to adjust, now that I have drove a stick, I will never go back, its just no fun driving an auto. Found it easy to shift to.

Seems like a great car, if I could I would have went for the Z4 (BMW)

but that car started at $34K for the 2.5 at base. With the 8 you can get it with the Gt package for $31K and $33K with the nav system (which does nto play dvds just in case you were wondering)
Old 09-23-2003, 12:47 PM
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ooh

If I were tall and had to get an automatic I would probably get a different car. The RX8 is great but it is smaller and with a sunroof has tight headroom.

I would suggest an Accord EX V-6 Coupe actually. Get some fancy wheels and it would fit nicely with an automatic.

I love the car in a 6spd and would strongly sugggest it over most everything else in that configuration. I don't know about others on here - some have the auto and love it. I would look at the Accord though.

THe BMW is nice but so expensive for comparable performance. The premium on insurance is another issue.
Old 09-23-2003, 01:00 PM
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I am little over 6'2" and a little over 270 lbs. :D and the car is comfortable. My last car was larger so it took a week to get really used to the cockpit but I feel really comfortable now. Just took a 900 mile roundtrip and was pleased with road comfort. I take my wife and two kids in the RX and have plenty of room for normal trips.

The AT is ok but not up to speed with the MT -- still fun to drive but may want for more power at times. I would expect Mazda to come out with a hi-power AT in the next year or two. If headroom is a big concern get the sport without the sunroof. Adds a lot of room.

The Merc does little for me (boring) the BMW was a nice ride but way too cliche for me. My second choice (actual first choice until I saw the 8) was a Volvo S60R -- looks good, great power and handling and not so common you see one everywhere you turn (BMW).
Old 09-23-2003, 03:27 PM
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no stock bmw or mercedes will turn heads like the 8
Old 09-23-2003, 10:48 PM
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ok, so this is how it seems to me. Am I right?:

1. Should be ok, but no sunroof may be better. (which doesn't bother me)

2. A bit slower, but fine for the average driver (who isn't looking as much for speed)

3. A better head turner, and a better deal.

Ok, so my specs has changed to:
Winning Blue
AT (unless I find I feel comfortable with the MT)
Sport Package
Nav System
$29,500 MSRP

Anything else you think I should add? I haven't seen one with the accents or apperence package, does it

make it look much better? Are they worth it?

By the way, does the RX-8 have run-flat tires? I noticed it doesn't say anything about having a spare? That kinda bothers me, what do you do if you have a blowout? (which is a big possibility with thin sport tires and all the pot-holes around here)
Old 09-24-2003, 04:08 PM
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Anyone?
Old 09-24-2003, 04:36 PM
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It doesnt have run flats. Comes with a fix a flat kit and a compressor.

About yoru choice, I have a sport package, no navi. I like the extra headroom and dont like the moonroof anyways. I also didnt get the Navi option since I find it pretty useless for me at least. Wish I had the LCD for other stuff though :D

AT is kinda pokey as youve heard, MT is a lot more fun IMHO.

But whatever you do, test drive the exact setup your thinking about beforre you buy. If the dealer wont give you a test drive first, dont get it. This way you assure your mental health.
Old 09-24-2003, 11:38 PM
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Do you have a picture of the fix-a-flat kit and the compressor, just wanted to see it out of curiosity.
Old 09-25-2003, 12:05 AM
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Sounds to me as if it's time for you go and look at one. That will answer a lot of the questions that you have left then you can come back and ask anything else.
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