So I have liked the RX8 since the came out. The rotary engine scared me away. The cars value seemed to drop a ton at 50k miles. I ended up buying a 350z instead. 2 years ago I sold the Nissan because I needed a more practical car for work.

I am looking for a fun car to drive for me and the wife. Relatively cheap.
I see a lot under 10k. Most have around 65k miles.

I have read about a lot of the cars issues. They scare me, but not enough to deter me.

I have just a few questions.
First it will likely be a an automatic. The wife wants to be able to drive it and she scares me driving a manual.

So under 10k and likely and automatic.

The options seem to be the year range 2004-2008.
I know there was an update to fix part of the engine not getting enough oil, but is there a way for me to check that? And what years have it already installed?
And say I get a compression test but have an engine problem. Which will likely eventually happen. How much does a replacement cost?

And last I have I read about the engine issues but how about the auto transmission? How does it hold up through all these problems?

Is there a year I should 100% avoid? seems like the 2004-2005 had the most issues.

 

If it really HAS to be an auto , get the 6 speed auto . The four speed AT is very slow and takes away a lot of the majic of these cars . The six speed is more powerful and is much less of a compromise.
If it doesn't have to be an AT ..... DON'T get an AT !!!!!!

 

Welcome aboard!
There were no hardware updates for oil delivery in the 2004-2008 range, but 2009+ engines have an entirely redesigned oil injection system that appears to be more effective. There were a number of software updates 2004-2008, any Mazda dealer should be able to tell you if a particular VIN has or has not had them applied, and do the work if necessary.

The more recent the car, the better. In fact a 2008 might still be under the 8 year/100,000 mile engine warranty. That makes the replacement free until 8 years since original sale passes. Otherwise, a 6-port engine replacement is about 5-6k and a 4-port (2004-2005 automatic) is more expensive due to rarity.

The auto transmissions are fine, no particular problems.

 

crap that engine replacement is as much as the car lol

 

Welcome aboard!

As advised above avoid auto if you can. If it must be an auto then 2006+ no matter what.

Now to your main issues. you can get 2009 for 12K if you can cough up an extra few grands.

Compression test is a must!
The car itself is pretty reliable, safe to be driven long distance at least in my case it has been.
Rotary engine has the need for attention, you look after it, treat it properly and it rewards you.

I haven't heard much issues with Auto trannies either, they hold up very well.

Your main concern is the engine, make sure you buy the car from someone who knows what they are dealing with, and took great care of the car. Make sure the compression is in good order.

A replacement or rebuild can cost you from 2500-5500 depending on where do you get it done.

I can proudly affirm that, both my rx8s 04 and 06 GTs have been the most reliable cars I have every owned, through snow storms, heat strokes, rain, drought you name it. As long as these cars are taken care of and treated well, they wont let you down. With one exception; engine death is inevitable, lol and you should keep that in mind.

Read the new owner thread a few times to gain better insights and post any questions you may have.. Our goal is not to scare new owners away, our goals are to help new / potential owners educating them what they are about to get themselves in :-)

All the best..