I called several mazda dealers in the Phila area and they all have some slots available. Last year when the 350Z was taking pre-orders, they sold out quickly. Why is it different with the RX-8? Does the Z have a better following?

 

No, the RX-8 will be offered in the US at quantities up to 3 times greater than the Z's. There are just more to go around.

 

Its probably true that the Z was more anticipated then the 8 is, but you have to remember its true GT/Sports car; If the 8 were the 7 I think you'd see the whole rotary community coming out of the woodwork. The 8 is mazdas compromise vehicle, the car that will allow them to go to ford and say "Yeah, we can sell a rotary in the states." Once that is acomplished, the 7 will make a come back.... and then you'll see the type of hype that surrounded the return of the Z.

 

The economy also sucks, and even those who DO have a job aren't likely to be ordering a RWD sports car in the middle of a pretty nasty winter in many areas...