Red Devil

Yea, but not everyone out there is that smart.

Immi

what guarentees you msrp?

Hercules

I went to the dealer, and told him that I'd give him 200 bucks if he wrote me a slip saying he would not charge me over MSRP.

He didn't understand why I'd want that, since the car was so far away from launch. I explained that I'd rather get the car guaranteed at MSRP rather than 'take his word that he won't sell higher than that' when the car is launched, and he realizes he can take advantage at that point in time.

Thus, he called his general manager and I stated my case over again, and they got a typed note, signed by both the salesman and the manager, dated and I gave them a copy (I took original). I also have a reciept on my bank card (Visa Checkcard) for a $200 charge.

jbebernes

Hey Herc, on the off chance that demand is so high for the RX-8 that out-the-door prices are well over MSRP, don't be too surprised if the dealer just gives you your $200 back...

max_stirling

What were you expecting? Thought, I think cars, in general, cost way more than they should, the fact is that cars are very complex and sophisticated machines. With all the safety equipment and computers, and the expensive research, developement, testing and certification process, their prices are justified.

Hey, I work hard for my money and I want the most bang for the buck I can get and there's a reason why I've purchased many Mazdas over the years. Mazda gives the value in terms of style, quality, and performance.

Look, everyone knows that the lower one sets a price for a product the better that product will sell. Mazda execs are not stupid. Mazda knows that if their future products don't sell well, that will pretty spell the end to the company. Mazda is trying very hard to be as competitive as possible. So when news is released that the RX-8 has a starting price of $29K, I'm sure you will get $29K's worth of car, if not more.

There's a lot more to a car than it's HP rating. Need an example? Look at the Miata. $29K loaded and only 140HP, there's a reason why Mazda has been consistantly selling 20K Miatas/year for the last 13 years.

In addition, the RX-8 gets you at lot of things other cars in that price range doesn't. First of all, an engine that can't be bought anywhere else with characteristics that can't be found anywhere else. Extreme exclusivity under $50K. Think about it.

Next, the concept of the RX-8 is very novel, interesting, and unique. One gets all the trappings of a sports car, but with four doors and four REAL seats. Yes, it's not a true two door, two seat sports car, but it doesn't pretend to be. The reality is there aren't many TRUE sports cars out there anymore for an affordable price.

Finally, there's practicality. I wouldn't hestitate for a second to replace my 2000 626 ES V6 for an RX-8. To be able to commute daily and still be able to have a baby seat fit in the back and not having to be a contortionist to get my child in and out is great. Having 250HP in a 1.3L rotary engine again is icing on the cake.

Do I think $30K is a lot of money? Sure I do. Do I think the RX-8 is worth the asking price? Of course, I do. Why? Because I could easy spend a lot more money on something that doesn't even offer as much fun, excitement, and practicality.

Just a thought.

WankelWannabe

Sure, there will be people lined up initially...but what about after 2 years? Remember the new beetle? They can't even give those things away now that the initial novelty has worn off. At that point people won't be willing to pay the premium anymore.

I don't think Mazda can afford to run into that problem. And they've already stated that the RX-8 will NOT be a limited production car.

Quick_lude

This is exactly why I'm glad my lease is up in spring of 2004.. initial bugs will be worked out.. price gouging will be no more.. I could maybe get one for "gasp!" below msrp.. imagine that novel concept..

Immi

price gouging in canada???
i've never heard of such a thing

Hercules

If I gave them money and the car is out, they have to sell it to me. If they don't, I'll talk to my dad's lawyer.