Hey Guys n girls,

I'm a new member (hello from the land down under) here and new to the RX8. I'm currently considering a change in cars (currently have a Mazda 3) and considering the RX8 (i'm a rotor fan).


I previously owned a Series 4 FC and I am aware of the nature of the rotary, but what I want to learn about is the substantial changes since my last rotor.

What should i pay attention to in particular when looking at a second hand RX8?


I shall browse around through these forums and see what I can read up, but if you have any tips or pointers, that would be greatly appreciated

Oh and just to share, my previous FC:




And my 3 as it stands:





Thank you!


Winston.

 

Love the fc with the black wheels...your getting yourself into no torque and some of the best handling from a stock car and of course the amaizng looks lol I'd go fd if your looking into alot of power but if not rx8 is your car..or if you dont mind paying 5-6k to go FI

 

Im not a real fan of "epic" power. I'm looking more into the world of fine balance between handling and the ability to drive on the limit.

I attend regular track meetings and the 3 doesn't seem to cut it and it's no where near as fun as driving a RWD.


The main points that the RX8 has me interested is that its a rotary, can sit 4 people ( usually it's just me and the mrs), age, and not too much power where i'll mischief on the streets.

One of the main reasons why I sold the FC was because I was young and stupid. After doing a number of trackdays, I've now learned that there is alot more fun to be had on the track then on the streets.


I was on the verge on doing a turbo conversion on my 3 (had the turbo gear all ready to be fitted, running t25, 38mm ext gate, 3" exhaust, fmic).

 

Then yeah if power isnt a big issue then you'll like it...its really a great car once you start doing some mods here and there...I've thought about selling it (shame on me) but I just cant get rid of the thing its one of a kind...Should go for a test drive and try it out!

 

Hopefully someone will be able to share on the light if there are any problems with the RX8's (like how the Mazda 3 had shocking side engine mounts and a bloody squeeky seat belt buckle).


Few more pics of my FC that i found:





And yes, Meisters ftw :D

 

Looks good man! bad sides to me personally about the rx8 was...I replaced the clutch right when i got it around 42k but i dunno how the previous driver drove it...gas mileage isnt the best around 18mpg give or take...I mean other than that I've had ZERO mechanical problems and I've had it for about a year and a half and its 2004 with 62k on it...keep an eye on oil as well

 

Fuel consumption isn't a major problem for me, as I only really drive to work (i catch public transport to university).

I guess the wear on the clutch depends on the previous driver, in experienced drivers will tend to ride the clutch.

 

i recommend either premix, or the sump conversion (pardon spelling)
run 10-30 or 10-40 oil
like your old rotary, carry a quart with you, top it off every 2 fill up (if no conversion)
used: check how healthy the engine is, idle, power, etc.

there is the break pumping for computer reset, and many other tricks in the DIY section.

avoid auto, if auto, avoid 04-05.
1 redline a day when engine is warm, careful with treating it when it's cold.
expect 17mpg if you drive it hard, 23 pure highway at 77mpg (my number)

 

Thanks for the advice. Whats the recommended for the premix ratio?


From what i remember, I use to run pretty thick oil on my old FC (something along the lines of 25w/60). Does this only apply to older engines? Or 10w/30 oil suit the new 13b's just fine?

 

10w30 is good, u can run heavier if you like. i premix on the almost none side @ 4oz per fill up, some people do 8oz per fill up, and some do more, best to look at thread and make own judgement.