Should I make a R3 Clone?
 

from the "what would you do if" files:
I just bought a low mileage 2006 RX-8, it has the nice two tone leather interior.

I also have the opportunity to pick up a 2009 R3 that's been wrecked front and back.
The R3 could be returned to street, but it would be a very substantial rebuild. The rear impact messed up the whole trunk area. The front impact is mostly surface
level: hood fenders, bumper cover, headlights... As in the engine, suspension, electrical, and cooling are all intact, and functional.
The good news? The seats and the wheels are untouched by the wreck. :)

Given the R3 may not return to the street, how much of it will bolt into my 2006?
I assume all four seats and the wheels are direct bolt on. The Front strut brace is better than my 2006. It bolts to the firewall too. Cool.
But how about the suspension pieces? Searching the forum says the rear spring perches on my 2006 are located lower, meaning using the R3 springs will RAISE the height of my 2006. not good.

Is it worth buying the 2009 for the seats and wheels alone? Maybe, if I magically get it real cheap...

What do you think the R3 engine and Transmission are worth, in case I decide to part it out?

Thanks in advance
Richard S.
the newest RX-8 owner

On the suspension, just swap the whole rear subframe assembly. You'll get the revised geometry and the 4.77 rear end ratio. Might as well get the transmission too.

wheels go for about 1500 on here used, and same for the interior. if you pay ~3000 its a pretty good deal since you still have everything else you can sell and make some profit.

What's the difference in transmissions?

. The R3 springs with your shocks will lower the car. The R3 shocks with your springs will raise the car. The R3 springs and shocks on your car shouldn't change the ride height.

The same as any 2009+ engine and transmission.

As for the wheels, make sure they weren't bent in the collision.

the 2009+ use the same basic transmission as the 3rd generation Miata (instead of the 2nd generation Miata 6-speed), but with a different 3rd and 6th gear. It's more durable than the earlier RX-8 transmission.

it got away.

The Car got taken away by the insurance company. no R3 parts for me :(

Ha? What do you mean it got away? What are you talking about?