When I got my RX8 I told my wife that I only needed one track car, so the 8 would not be on track. Well, this year I've had to change my mind. Earlier this spring I had it out at CTMP's DDT. My rationale was that it was a school, not high speed, and easier than hauling my track car. Then yesterday I was at the CTMP Grand Prix track and my track car died almost before it started. Just happened to have the RX8 so, rather than losing the day, put it into service. This car is stock apart from a K&N panel filter, Toyo R1R 245 45 18 tires, and Carbotech AX6 pads (note: AX6 are not track pads and I don't recommend them for track use; but this was an emergency). I will simply say it's a beautiful track car. Turned 1:50's consistently with a dip into 1:49s. I didn't have the lap timer in all of the time as I lent it to a Viper - running consistent 1:27s - so it's possible it ran faster. The rotary is so smooth - you needed to add a reference point as to when to shift because, otherwise, you'd hit the rev limiter.

 

nice

 

The chassis on the rx-8 is much refined compared to the rx-7, better balanced with the engine pushed back. Handling is very predictable, making it easy and the driver to feel safe to to drive the car faster. At least that's my experience.

Steve's OTA build is a great example of its ability.

 

Glad you like
What's your regular track car?
Do you ever come out to events in Quebec?

 

Steve's build is very impressive. I'm working with him on an article about it for MotoIQ. It will be a late summer or early fall article - due to my schedule.

My track car is a Nissan NX1600 - hence my username - with a GTi-R SR20DET. Significant suspension upgrades and multiple other upgrades. It's warm up lap was 1:50 - so it's a different car than the RX8.

I haven't been to Quebec yet. I will get there. Over the years my focus has been Ontario Time Attack (OTA) and ChumpCar (run with a Miata team there).

 

The biggest problem I found was leaving the track and having to drive the RX-8 on the road.