Hey there PNW'ers,

It's time I sign off from the RX-8 club. This weekend I traded in my beauty for an ugly little econo-box. I went from taking the bus every day to a long commute, and the rotary just guzzles gas like I drunk (the 245 width tires probably weren't helping!). And I was getting a bit worried about piling on the big miles for other vehicle-specific reasons. And I needed a car that could go skiing (lost access to a SUV).

So I got a Mazdaspeed 3! Better gas, way more power, and more practical for larger objects. But, and I do mean BUT, it is a hatchback FWD. Yes Mazdaspeed did an amazing job w/ chassis stiffening, suspension tuning, and powertrain mods (Limited slip Diff makes all the difference), but it is simply not a balanced RWD layout like the 8. I already miss that sublime feeling of powering through a turn in the 8. The Speed 3 just kinda hacks its way through.

Anyways, I'm ranting. For those of you that can keep living the dream, enjoy. And if you are driving one day and are wondering "WTF is that urban gray speed3 waving at me?" it might be this former owner.

-Flomulgator

 

Wow, Jonathan! Sorry you sold your 8, but it makes sense. At least you stayed in the family and a MS3, not just a plain 3 - I like them, especially the hatchback.

Thanks for all your help and advice, I really appreciate it. Yeah, wave sometime! I'll pay attention to the grey 3's

 

I feel you, Thank god I did not sale my 1991 hyundai scoup turbo, last year and that the dealer wood not take it in as a tray in for my Rx8. But know I am very happy, with my daily driver and my angelica (Rx8). I wish you could have found a way to keep the Rx8, But in your case I think you did the right thing, and you still can come on a drive with us and stay in touch with us to!!! So i will keep my I open for you, on your speed3