rhuffi0230

I'd like to start by apologizing for asking, I'm sure you've probably heard it all before, but i like to do my research.

Sometime in the next year, I am likely to be coming into some money and would like to use some to purchase a new vehicle. Normally I am a fan of Ford, since my grandfather retired from Ford and I get a hefty discount. Lately however, Mazda has had my attention. For the longest time I have been researching the Speed 3. I currently drive a manual Ford Focus 2 door hatch, and love it. I've ridden in the MS3, but have not driven it.

The other day I had the privilege of test driving the RX-8 and I must say it is a phenomenal car. I very much like both cars, but have a few worries about both.

First, with the MS3.

Biggest issues here are styling, and it's infamous torque steer. I personally love the styling, but needless to say the RX-8 will turn more heads. I was excited to read that the suspension had some influences from the Focus from when Ford had a stake in Mazda because I feel the focus is actually a blast to drive, scoff if you like lol. Having never driven an overpowered Front driver, I've never experienced Torque Steer. I don't think it would be something I couldn't compensate for, but I'm not sure how bad it actually is. I worry that it could make the car less fun and more work to drive. Definitely would like input on this.

The RX-8 was amazing to drive, great control, nice pickup, never scary, but not what I would call Fast, being used to a relative's Mustang GT. To say the very least, it's respectable, and that's fine. I loved the smoothness in the power as well. I have also read about the Rotary's trouble with warming up and oil problems. Needless to say if I spend 30k on a car, i want reliability.

I'm not asking whether or not the MS3 will beat the RX-8, at least in a line. What I am concerned with most is practicality, while maintaining the most fun and rewarding experience, and of course, reliability and ownership costs.

Thanks to everyone in advance!

Have a great day!

FoxeyL8y

start here:

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

and, welcome!

rhuffi0230

Thank you very much for the info. I guess after reading that, I'm just worried about how difficult it may be to get into the habit of keeping such a close eye on oil levels and ignition. i always get my oil changed on time, but have almost never had to add it between changes. I'm not trying to sound lazy, but just a small concern, don't want to ruin the car.

Also, I thought I read, may have been on the forums here, that it's actually good to run the RX-8 at higher revs, and it typically runs best at 6000, rather than a regular engine's 3 or so.

And I love a Manual drive car, and was wondering if there are any drawbacks in the manual 8, and and major differences between the two besides the horsepower drop in the auto. I test drove the Manual.

RIWWP

iTrader: (2)

A) If paying attention to the car's maintenance is a concern for you at all, then get a piston engined car where you have more of a safety buffer on stuff like that. And I don't mean that sarcastically or rudely.


B) The cruise point for the 8 is either 3,500rpm or 4,000rpm. If you want to mash the GO pedal, then downshift till you are over 5,000rpm, otherwise it will be lackluster. No reason to cruise at 6,000rpm unless you enjoy burning even more fuel, and like to build up excess heat in the engine. Of course, stomp on it from time to time, get that beep at the redline at full throttle. Lugging it around all day is unhealthy.

C) The only difference between MT and AT other than the power difference is ...fun? The only drawback that MT has over AT is the whole clutch pedal usage thing. Some of us enjoy using it, others don't. If you are used to manual cars, then just get a manual. Problem solved