Alright so I sold my RX-8 (traded it in) back in April for a new Saturn Sky Red Line.
I want my RX-8 back

I like the Sky, and it's fast but she doesn't drive near as well and takes a lot of the fun out of it.

I do however want a new RX-8 R3 to try out the manual version of this amazing car. I have never driven a stick of my own before but I have driven my GF's old Honda a few years back.

Can anyone comment on the R3 vs. an Auto RX-8 6 speed?

Thanks guys.

 

That's a slightly confusing question, R3 vs an Auto? R3 is a trim level isn't it?

 

Yes ok, how is the suspension and handling difference.

 

Manual 8's rule. Don't bother with AT.

 

I think 90% of the people on this forum would say manual is better than auto. I'm not going to argue, I like my auto.

R3 as an option however, I've heard a few people say it feels sharper, and less body roll.

 

The redline does sound good with the turbo, but what a poor choice.

No offense intended, but there are so many better convertibles(if that's what you were going for).

I would consider trading it in...but hurry up, the Saturn is depreciating faster than our 8's.

 

And if you want an auto 8...you can upgrade the suspension enough to be better than the R3.

 

Have u tried latest gen Miata? New 2010 face looks better.

 

R3 or go home. Nuff said.

 

Yeah I was going for a convertible. And IMHO it was and is the best on the market for the price. I like the look of it much better than any other, most convertibles don't look good. The only one that looks better is the hard top Z4. That's just my opinion.

The turbo makes it a quick car indeed.

As for depreciation, it's not that bad as they are no longer making them, a ton of people still want them. I don't think I will trade it in but just keep it and get an R3.

 

R3 ftw

 

Get an R3, just remember, they are torqueless mother *******.

 

R3 for sure

 

Mazda claims that all they did to tweak the R3’s handling over lesser RX-8s was to add a set of Bilsteins, 19” forged wheels and a Urethane-foam-injected front suspension cross member.

 

RX8's torqueless?? No way!!!

 

I think I can relate to your position as I had a 2007 Touring AT before getting my Brilliant Black R3. I have to say, the feeling of suspension is an improvement from what I was used to with firmer ride (due to the 19's but still very comfortable).

In my opinion, I feel like I can actually drive smoother with the manual compared to the "manual" mode of the AT. This is coming from someone that really never owned any manual transmission vehicles, so I'm sure if you practice a bit you should do well.

Personally, I love the Recaro seats as for what they are and not because of the "name". Again, try them out and see if that is something you really feel comfortable sitting in (they fit perfect for me and long drives). That being said, I would get the skinniest person to sit up front and the larger person at the back, lol.

Let me know if you have an particular questions and I'll be glad to help you out. I'm sure if you stick with the R3 and like what it offers, I don't think you will regret it at all.

P.S. Did I say I LOVE my R3?

 

I test drove the r3 and it does feel different than my rx8. Not the power of the car but the sharpness and the quick cornering response. The recaro seats do feel nice but because of my back problems i could sit in it for long. I say go for the R3. I also agree with you on the Sky is does look nice.

 

Get the R3 only if you were going to keep the Sky Red Line.
I would hate to see you losing several thousands dollars by trading in 2 cars in a relatively short time.
Love the looks of the Sky btw.

 

Yeah between the two I would lose about 12k