RX-8 Owner After 4 years turning in car
07-09-2008, 05:10 PM
#77
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Overall the car was good except that I had an issue where new batteries had drained 5 times in 3 weeks and had to get Mazda of NA involved. The local Mazda dealer was horrible and has turned me away from Mazda. The fact is that your local dealer has a lot to do with your overall experience.
07-09-2008, 05:16 PM
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hmm...
997 turbo weighs up to about 3600 pounds. m6 weighs about 3800 pounds. even the r8 weighs 3400 pounds. i like lightweight, but that seems pretty hard to do for most manufacturers these days. the gt-r is pretty big and heavy, but it sure runs around tracks fast as hell. i'm assuming you know that it's tracked the 'ring in 7:29. and sure, it handles so well mostly 'cuz of the computer and high-tech gizmos, but isn't that what gt-r's have always been about?
997 turbo weighs up to about 3600 pounds. m6 weighs about 3800 pounds. even the r8 weighs 3400 pounds. i like lightweight, but that seems pretty hard to do for most manufacturers these days. the gt-r is pretty big and heavy, but it sure runs around tracks fast as hell. i'm assuming you know that it's tracked the 'ring in 7:29. and sure, it handles so well mostly 'cuz of the computer and high-tech gizmos, but isn't that what gt-r's have always been about?
It's not impossible for a sports car to weigh near 3100 lbs. The Z06 and C6 are in that ball park, as are the 911 GT2 and GT3. Love or hate the corvette you have to respect it's performance:
"...the C6 blazed around the course (VIR) in 3:03.6. That time bests those of the Audi R8 and Porsche 911 997 Turbo, cars that cost more than twice as much as the Z51’s base price. As we’ve learned, Corvettes are lap dogs when it comes to obeying commands from the helm, and they have wonderful fade-free brakes and benefit from a smooth 400-hp V-8. But they initially feel spooky, partly because the steering is a bit numb. Once a driver learns to trust the Vette’s chassis, the Chevy can embarrass almost any other car on the track, even if it isn’t as confidence inspiring as a Porsche 911."
07-09-2008, 05:54 PM
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Believe me I'm a lighter-is-better type car enthusiast but the GT-R is a technical tour de force and has always been. It is technology. The R35's target was admittedly the 911 Turbo. These are AWD (heavy) complex road cars which seem to handle their weight quite well. The modern GT-R has never set out to be a minimalistic light weight 2-wheel drive car (I think this is what the Z is trying to be). Perhaps the good time at the 'ring for the GT-R can be attributed to it's technology/AWD which results in an easier car to drive (more controllable) on such a long, complex course but also means more weight. Sure, if you stripped out all the safety features/interior/what not but left all performance-related equipment intact it would probably get a faster lap time but then it wouldn't count as it wasn't production of road legal. If you went the other way to save weight by removing all heavy electronics and AWD and made it a simple RWD car with the same power I don't think it would lap near as fast as this is the gear that is making it so quick. GT-R is very capable and fast but faster and easier to drive doesn't always equate to more fun to drive car... WTF... What thread am I in? How many different threads have involved discussions on GT-R, Corvettes and the Nürburgring? lol
07-09-2008, 06:42 PM
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Hehe. It all goes back to the ring That would be the trip of life time (me, the ring, and a sports car).
And speaking of the 997 911 Turbo, my father-in-law has one. Man is it fast. It's like getting hit in the stomach with a bag of flour every time you mash the gas pedal. It is also glued to the road and handles like a champ. I know these cars can handle and perform beautifully, but I (and it sounds like you are too JRichter) personally am after the pure driving experience of a lighter car where there is less technology and more driver when making the car go round the track. (My dream 911 is the GT3...)
And yes, what thread is this again?
That would be the trip of life time (me, the ring, and a sports car).And speaking of the 997 911 Turbo, my father-in-law has one. Man is it fast. It's like getting hit in the stomach with a bag of flour every time you mash the gas pedal. It is also glued to the road and handles like a champ. I know these cars can handle and perform beautifully, but I (and it sounds like you are too JRichter) personally am after the pure driving experience of a lighter car where there is less technology and more driver when making the car go round the track. (My dream 911 is the GT3...)
And yes, what thread is this again?
07-09-2008, 08:07 PM
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If I'm not mistaken the G37 is a luxury sedan, while the RX8 is a sports car, so I'm not surprised the G37 would have more luxuries than the RX8.
Which isn't to say that the G37 isn't sporty or even a sports car......but it is a luxury sedan first and foremost, and a luxury sedan will have more bells and whistles.
Regardless........best of luck.
Which isn't to say that the G37 isn't sporty or even a sports car......but it is a luxury sedan first and foremost, and a luxury sedan will have more bells and whistles.
Regardless........best of luck.
Last edited by To be named later; 07-10-2008 at 12:11 AM.
07-09-2008, 08:27 PM
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After reading the post, congrats on your new purchase.
My opinion is comparing these two cars. Should I do a review of the Honda Accord versus the 335i? Comparing a 40k+ car to something that is 30k is dumb. With more money usually comes more comforts, more gadgets, more nasty chrome trim, and etc.
The 3.7 isnt a bad motor, but it isnt an engineering marvel either. I have driven the G35 and G37. The are a bit plush, but if I were interested in something that is twitchy in the corners, and look like the "alpha male" then sure I would consider it.
PS - I see G35s everywhere, is it true that once you sign the papers your dick instantly grows 6" bigger?
My opinion is comparing these two cars. Should I do a review of the Honda Accord versus the 335i? Comparing a 40k+ car to something that is 30k is dumb. With more money usually comes more comforts, more gadgets, more nasty chrome trim, and etc.
The 3.7 isnt a bad motor, but it isnt an engineering marvel either. I have driven the G35 and G37. The are a bit plush, but if I were interested in something that is twitchy in the corners, and look like the "alpha male" then sure I would consider it.
PS - I see G35s everywhere, is it true that once you sign the papers your dick instantly grows 6" bigger?
07-09-2008, 08:35 PM
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After reading the post, congrats on your new purchase.
My opinion is comparing these two cars. Should I do a review of the Honda Accord versus the 335i? Comparing a 40k+ car to something that is 30k is dumb. With more money usually comes more comforts, more gadgets, more nasty chrome trim, and etc.
The 3.7 isnt a bad motor, but it isnt an engineering marvel either. I have driven the G35 and G37. The are a bit plush, but if I were interested in something that is twitchy in the corners, and look like the "alpha male" then sure I would consider it.
PS - I see G35s everywhere, is it true that once you sign the papers your dick instantly grows 6" bigger?
My opinion is comparing these two cars. Should I do a review of the Honda Accord versus the 335i? Comparing a 40k+ car to something that is 30k is dumb. With more money usually comes more comforts, more gadgets, more nasty chrome trim, and etc.
The 3.7 isnt a bad motor, but it isnt an engineering marvel either. I have driven the G35 and G37. The are a bit plush, but if I were interested in something that is twitchy in the corners, and look like the "alpha male" then sure I would consider it.
PS - I see G35s everywhere, is it true that once you sign the papers your dick instantly grows 6" bigger?
07-10-2008, 02:28 AM
#87
^^^This is exactly what I mean. I don't care if a car is better than the 8 (there are plenty) but if you are going to make a comparison then keep it within or near the same price range.
If you want to recap your evaluation of your lease for 4 years then do so. If you want to do a RX8 vs. G37...well you see what I am saying. Good bye.
If I'm not mistaken the G37 is a luxury sedan, while the RX8 is a sports car, so I'm not surprised the G37 would have more luxuries than the RX8.
Which isn't to say that the G37 isn't sporty or even a sports car......but it is a luxury sedan first and foremost, and a luxury sedan will have more bells and whistles.
Which isn't to say that the G37 isn't sporty or even a sports car......but it is a luxury sedan first and foremost, and a luxury sedan will have more bells and whistles.
07-10-2008, 11:18 AM
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What an odd thread. Dean enjoyed his RX-8 for the four years he was scheduled to have it, and has now decided to try a different kind of car for the next few years. Nice debrief about what he liked and didn't like about the 8.
Why does every mention of another car have to turn into a spurned lover debate?
Ken
Why does every mention of another car have to turn into a spurned lover debate?
Ken
07-10-2008, 11:21 AM
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What an odd thread. Dean enjoyed his RX-8 for the four years he was scheduled to have it, and has now decided to try a different kind of car for the next few years. Nice debrief about what he liked and didn't like about the 8.
Why does every mention of another car have to turn into a spurned lover debate?
Ken
Why does every mention of another car have to turn into a spurned lover debate?
Ken
07-10-2008, 11:43 AM
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He expressed excitement about his new ride. IMHO, someone buying more than a cheap box on wheels had better be excited about it.
Speaking of Infiniti excitement, last week I rode shotgun in a G35 sedan for a couple of hundred miles. The electronics package was very impressive. ipod integration was seamless - the pod went into a hidden compartment, and the car's controls worked everything. There was a CF card slot, so I presume one would not even have to spring for an ipod. GPS had traffic alerts. Reverse automatically switched to backup camera, and there were guidelines as well as a rear view on the screen.
I'm too young to really crave that kind of highway cruiser stuff, but if Dean's going to spend much time on the Interstates he ought to enjoy his G37.
Ken
07-10-2008, 12:56 PM
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yes, I agree with the "you need a thicker skin" comments. Come ON! Look at how much you enjoyed your RX! You must have gotten some enjoyment by hanging with us other fellow owners over the years. Everybody who slammed you can just kiss off. Don't worry about them man! Good luck with your new car and I think it would be a mistake to NEVER be on this forum again, especially because there are a lot of us newer owners who would appreciate guys like you making comments about our questions because you obviously speak the language of the RX fluently. cheers.
07-10-2008, 07:33 PM
#95
all i gotta say is, don't jump down someone's throat because they would rather have a new car with a warranty that has a given level of performance than a hopped-up older one with a turbo kit. There is a lot of bullshit that comes with building that kind of power at your house than having someone build it at an OEM factory.
and this is coming from a guy who is making nearly 400whp and 300wtq on a rotary. You can't say "oh well just put a turbo on your car, then it will stomp x vehicle" uh yeah it will, and then you have the enormous amount of headaches (to some it's a headache, to others it's part of the fun) that come from nearly doubling a car's power output.
I for one though don't see the appeal of OEM electronic gizmos. They always end up being completely dated in a couple years (both in look and function), like my 6 disc changer in my 97 Infiniti Q45 , or the digital dashes on 80's cars. Aftermarket is the obvious choice for audio, navigation, etc, provided that it is installed correctly, whereas serious aftermarket performance mods (like turboing an engine that wasn't designed to be turbo) is a whole different deal.
and this is coming from a guy who is making nearly 400whp and 300wtq on a rotary. You can't say "oh well just put a turbo on your car, then it will stomp x vehicle" uh yeah it will, and then you have the enormous amount of headaches (to some it's a headache, to others it's part of the fun) that come from nearly doubling a car's power output.
I for one though don't see the appeal of OEM electronic gizmos. They always end up being completely dated in a couple years (both in look and function), like my 6 disc changer in my 97 Infiniti Q45 , or the digital dashes on 80's cars. Aftermarket is the obvious choice for audio, navigation, etc, provided that it is installed correctly, whereas serious aftermarket performance mods (like turboing an engine that wasn't designed to be turbo) is a whole different deal.
Last edited by arghx7; 07-10-2008 at 07:38 PM.
07-10-2008, 07:54 PM
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I just think the comparison between a sports car and a much more expensive luxury sedan might not be the best comparison.
07-15-2008, 05:32 AM
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Hey All,
It is nice to see some very reasonable people responded to my post and understood I was just trying to be honest but had good things to say about my 8. However, i still say when someone makes a very honest opinion and tries to be fair about it, it looks bad on the RX-8 community when people just attack.
I was not saying the G37 Sport i better than the RX-8. I said the car fits me better at this time in my llife I also did say I miss having more torque and that the gas mileage i s bad. Is that really anything bad? I really had a bad experience with the local dealer but i made it clear it was only about the local dealer.
I do want to clarify one other thing. I bought the G37 Sport. It really is a very sporty car. Look at Car and Driver reviews. The G37S as it is called is the sports car with the luxury items inside. What is wrong with wanting a car that has great features on the inside, more so than any other in a car that even Car and Driver ranks over the 335i (something I test drove also).
I am 40 year old now, I have not dont AutoX in 6 years since my S2000 days. I wanted a car that has luxuries and is nice to take to clients and taking a few clients out to lunch wiht but also is great on back roads with lots of torque and hp and a nice sports car suspension.
I think the car looks sports epecially with the 19 inch tires and the differences in the Sport design.
And you guys are right about it being mainly a luxury Sedan. 95% are automatic transmissions and I have to wait three more weeks to get my blue slate with all the options in the sport version.
Infiniti gave me a 41,000 loaner with everything but the NAV package until my car arrives. The car was a steal because the market is bad now and I could get good deals on the BMW, Porsche, and Lexus which I also considerd.
The bottom line is this cars fits me. I am a small business owner who does business consulting mainly dealing with technology so yes I like the keyless entry, the computer to allow you to set how long the headlights stay on before it turns off and how long it is before your car automatically locks. It is highly customizable and a perfect fit for my personality, my style preferences, and it was in the right price range. In fact it saved me 8 grand over the 335i with a lot more features.
I am not really comparing this car directly to the RX-8. I tried my best to explain what got my attention about the G37 after reading a lot of reviews and going to a lot of different dealers.
I never intended on saying the G37 is better than the RX-8. I simply pointed out some things I like that the 8 didint have. The truth is after I have been in a car for 4 years, I want the next car to have some differences.
The G37S does have some strengths that are weaknesses of the 8 but the Vice Versa is true also. If I had bought a G35 4 years ago (which I considered) then I might be here looking for the RX-8.
I am just making a general suggestion for certain people on this board. Dont take someone elses subjective likes and get all defensive or make comments like "Welll put a turbo in your 8." Guys, we are all car enthusiasts and as a owner for 4 years and a previous 3rd gen RX-7 owner, I would hope the majority of people would understand some people need more variety and no matter what car you have, it is going to have strrenths and weaknesses.
If you would like, I can come back in 4 years and give a comparison of the G37 vs the RX-8 after 4 years of each but I think it would honestly be useless as both cars would be compeltely different in 2012.
Anyways, I do hope the 8 club continunes to strive. It was a good car for 4 years other than some minor complaints.
Dean
It is nice to see some very reasonable people responded to my post and understood I was just trying to be honest but had good things to say about my 8. However, i still say when someone makes a very honest opinion and tries to be fair about it, it looks bad on the RX-8 community when people just attack.
I was not saying the G37 Sport i better than the RX-8. I said the car fits me better at this time in my llife I also did say I miss having more torque and that the gas mileage i s bad. Is that really anything bad? I really had a bad experience with the local dealer but i made it clear it was only about the local dealer.
I do want to clarify one other thing. I bought the G37 Sport. It really is a very sporty car. Look at Car and Driver reviews. The G37S as it is called is the sports car with the luxury items inside. What is wrong with wanting a car that has great features on the inside, more so than any other in a car that even Car and Driver ranks over the 335i (something I test drove also).
I am 40 year old now, I have not dont AutoX in 6 years since my S2000 days. I wanted a car that has luxuries and is nice to take to clients and taking a few clients out to lunch wiht but also is great on back roads with lots of torque and hp and a nice sports car suspension.
I think the car looks sports epecially with the 19 inch tires and the differences in the Sport design.
And you guys are right about it being mainly a luxury Sedan. 95% are automatic transmissions and I have to wait three more weeks to get my blue slate with all the options in the sport version.
Infiniti gave me a 41,000 loaner with everything but the NAV package until my car arrives. The car was a steal because the market is bad now and I could get good deals on the BMW, Porsche, and Lexus which I also considerd.
The bottom line is this cars fits me. I am a small business owner who does business consulting mainly dealing with technology so yes I like the keyless entry, the computer to allow you to set how long the headlights stay on before it turns off and how long it is before your car automatically locks. It is highly customizable and a perfect fit for my personality, my style preferences, and it was in the right price range. In fact it saved me 8 grand over the 335i with a lot more features.
I am not really comparing this car directly to the RX-8. I tried my best to explain what got my attention about the G37 after reading a lot of reviews and going to a lot of different dealers.
I never intended on saying the G37 is better than the RX-8. I simply pointed out some things I like that the 8 didint have. The truth is after I have been in a car for 4 years, I want the next car to have some differences.
The G37S does have some strengths that are weaknesses of the 8 but the Vice Versa is true also. If I had bought a G35 4 years ago (which I considered) then I might be here looking for the RX-8.
I am just making a general suggestion for certain people on this board. Dont take someone elses subjective likes and get all defensive or make comments like "Welll put a turbo in your 8." Guys, we are all car enthusiasts and as a owner for 4 years and a previous 3rd gen RX-7 owner, I would hope the majority of people would understand some people need more variety and no matter what car you have, it is going to have strrenths and weaknesses.
If you would like, I can come back in 4 years and give a comparison of the G37 vs the RX-8 after 4 years of each but I think it would honestly be useless as both cars would be compeltely different in 2012.
Anyways, I do hope the 8 club continunes to strive. It was a good car for 4 years other than some minor complaints.
Dean
07-15-2008, 06:06 AM
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Glad you decided to come back, Dean. Good luck and all the best. Or stay and tell us more about your FD!
07-15-2008, 07:36 AM
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My only question would be, how was the maintenence, reliability and how did the RX8 physically hold up after 4 years? How many miles were on it when you traded it in? Any problems? What about interior wear? How did the paint hold up? Shifter?
Im amazed that here we have a rare opportunity to pick aguys brains who has lived with the car for 4 years and no one has asked/spoken about the really important stuff.
So how about it?
Im amazed that here we have a rare opportunity to pick aguys brains who has lived with the car for 4 years and no one has asked/spoken about the really important stuff.
So how about it?