DIE THREAD DIE... :D

 

This thread has gone on so long, now Mercedes-Benz has a 7 speed automatic.

http://www.daimlerchrysler.com/index...3/t30514_e.htm

 

damn...maybe they can pull off an 8 speed manual to beat it out!!

 

But won't this all end up with a perfected CV auto transmission ala Nissan Murano????

 

Maybe we can beat the RX-8 Wagon thread with this one. Old timers remember this one well. All you newbees should check this out.

 

*knocks puppy in the head* STOP THAT PUPPY!:p

 

Ok I am gonna ask something that this thread was supposed to discuss but in 8 pages of posts addressed everything but the question at hand. My question as well as several other people around here: Is there any news out there about how the automatic RX-8 drives? Is there any automatic version test drives, stats anything? Why is Mazda safe guarding the automatic version so well for are there hidden evils with the automatic version that Mazda so wants to keep from the public (other than the loss of 2 gears and 40 hp)? Is the automatic tranny gonna be slow and jerky, is it gonna be smooth and quick during gear changes? Those are some of the questions people want to know about the automatic but have not really been addressed by anyone except for people like "Oh automatics stink get a manual" There are some people who are getting a automatic to better suit their needs, they just want to know if there are any hidden evils or pluses behind it.

 

I agree,

I have been looking on the net for some kind of info or tests done on the auto and I have had very little luck. I have ordered the the auto for numerous reason that I really don't want to get into a debate about that. I am just excited to get the car. the look, style and uniqueness of this car is why I am so excited. I just want to make sure the auto has tested well in terms of smoothness and cruising speeds. I don't know about the rest of you but buying this car is a huge deal to me and I am so excited.(my first truly new car) I just want to know as much as i can about the car!

Mathteacher

 

I am holding out until people start getting their cars around here to see how the automatic version is, my other choice, the 2003 Ford Mustang Mach 1 I have read a decent amount of test with the automatic versions and it does preform (minus the slightly lower redline and the lower top speed) really good they say for an automatic. Goodluck with your automatic man, when are you expecting to recieve yours?

 

Well guys, I can see the anticipation for the car is really revving everybody up. The reasons for getting an auto are various and I'm sure valid, so I won't bother going that route. But when you read reviews of course they are going to be heavily skewed towards the 250 6-speed manual... All the automatic folks are going to just have to wait and test drive the damn thing for yourself... if it sucks then walk away.. There are many sources all spewing the same information.. you have the very sluggish figures quoted in Mazda Token Hardcover book and the quicker figures quoted everywhere else. In all likelihood it while probably fall somewhere in the middle. Anyways, you are not gonna do 0-60 at every stop light, so don't worry about it. What counts is the ride, acceleration under normal circumstances and the feel of the auto gear shifting. Books and magazines aren't going to tell you squat about that for the auto. That is why we have 8 pages of rambling thread chalk full of hand wringing. Take a breath, wait for your car, drive it for yourself, then make your choice to buy.

 

well said. I agree. I am not going to race this car in fact I will probably baby it for a long time. I just want to make sure the auto is smooth and when I need that power it is there. The plan is first i am going to sit in it and make sure my head is not stuck against the sunroof, then I am going to drive her around on a test drive and if all is well I am out the door with a huge smile on my face! As far as when this is going to take place? We all now that is the million dollar question. End of july is what the dealer keeps saying but I currently have no vin and I think I know more info than he does so when it gets here it gets here.

Mathteacher

 

My advice remains the same - if you really want the auto, and especially if you're planning to keep the car a long time, be patient, wait a year (maybe even two) and get the forthcoming 5 speed auto or the SMG. It's going to be a much better transmission/engine combination, period.

Think 10 years down the road of resale value, someone is looking to buy an early RX-8 auto - which is worth more, the 2004 210hp 4 speed, or the 2005 250hp 5 speed auto? The difference in value will be big, and not just because of the 1 model year...

Regards,
Gordon