Is an RX-8 for me?
 

Hello All,

I moved from Asia to San Diego recently.

I am not what you will call a car enthusiast. But I certainly enjoy a good car. I test drove a 2007 RX-7 recently with 30k miles in it and I was pretty impressed by the ride and seriously contemplating on getting it.

The question is, being very inexperienced in the US road system and this being my first car here, is RX-8 a good choice for me? I did drive a manual back home, but it's been nearly 6 years since I drove a car.

Also as some threads suggest, should I be so consciously be careful about the little little things associated with a rotary engine? Practically, how demanding is it to maintain one in good health?

Thanks in advance for your responses.

As you browse thru the forum you will receive the knowledge about the car to help make a sound decision. It does need to based on your circumstances and interest though. Only thing I'll say is that, yes, to own a rotary car you need to be a bit more aware of your car and how it works, how it needs maintenance different from a piston car.

Where abouts did you find a 2007 RX-7? If you liked that, you're likely enjoy the feeling of an RX-8. Just pick a good one and have it checked by a Mazda dealer first, or get a warranty one, either OEM or 3rd party if it's reasonable.

Welcome!
Spin was thorough in his reply, there are just some things that i'd like to add.

Purchasing a rotary can be a quite challenging task. Not many owners know what they're actually driving and an used car may show several signs of poor maintenance.

Before buying this kind (or any kind perhaps) of car be thorough in your inspection:
Request all the maintenance record,
Have your mechanic inspect the car for you (Compression test, catalytic converter inspection, general wear and tear etc).
The only real quirk, given a good compression, is the ignition system. It doesn't last that long (30-60k miles depending on use). There are cheap (500$ range) upgrades that will last a looong time.
The clutch pedal is another known issue that is cheap to fix.

Premixing is a good habit, so is using the right oil for your application (climate dependant).

After that it's just a rotary: change the plugs often, service it regularly and have fun :)

With this said make sure that your budget accounts for all these tests as well and the regular maintenance is not too much for you.

As you browse the forum, look at the following thread:

https://www.rx8club.com/new-member-forum-197/new-potential-owners-start-here-202454/

When you test drive an 8, pay attention to the visibility to the rear. It's not the best, and may be a factor in your concern about US driving being new to you.

Ken

Especially at night. Quite often I have walked around back to check and make sure there is nothing there before I back up. And on the subject there's one hell of a giant blind spot over your left shoulder when merging on the highway

That's the very reason why cars have side mirrors.

Where in Asia?
That will actually tell me more than you might think.

An '07 rx7? I'd like to get me one of those.

2007 rx-7? Post pictures of it will ya, okthxby.

what is your budget?

The rx8 requires a bit more maintenance than the average car. But you ought to know what you're getting yourself into before it becomes troublesome.

yes, it is manageable but it takes a bit more money and time.

I would normally say "if you have to ask, then no", but really you just need to stay on top of it. It's a car, mostly like any other. You just can't slouch or procrastinate on the maintenance.

If you don't mind popping the hood every week or two to check the oil levels and add a little bit when necessary, then you'll be fine and you will love the car. If you just want to get in, drive, turn it off and visit jiffy live every 3000 miles, you may want to consider another vehicle.

Jiffy Lube. Sorry.