Quick question for all you lucky owners who have already got your 8's over in the U.S. Has anyone swapped an MX5/Miata for the RX-8 and if so how do you compare the driving experience. Does the 8 have similar but more grown up feel to the 5 or is it a completely different beast.
I appreciate that one is convertible and the other not but both have similar attributes ( rear wheel drive, Six speed 'box, backbone chassis design etc) but I wonder how they actually compared for driving FUN!:D I find the 5 a hoot to drive and love it for trackdays (tho it needs more power to mix with the bigger boys.) Thanks in advance

 

I have both.

My Miata has a lot of suspension compontents (Konis, upgraded sway bars, etc) and handles extremely well. Never found another stock car that comes close.

The RX8's steering is almost as sharp, though! I was really surprised- much better than the G35 Coupe I test drove.

The Miata is more tossable, but as I break in the 8, the differences will decrease I believe (I am shifting at 4500 now...). The 8 feels lighter than it is (its still only 3000 pounds).

Acceleration is much greater in the 8, and noise level is much less- the 8 is quiet almost to a fault (I am used to the very loud Miata).

Brakes do not compare.

Build quality, firmness, etc- the 8 is much more substantial and BMW-like in its firm comfort.

The main reason I got the 8 is that I knew Mazda would do it right- create a very fun to drive car for those who are spoiled by Miata handling. And Mazda got it right on!

 

I traded a '99 Miata for my RX-8. I tend to agree with miata2rx8. My Miata also had suspension mods and great tires (T1S').

I'm still breaking it in (running in) so I can't really comment on the brakes yet. Steering is sharp; very Miata-like. Shift throw seems a bit longer than the Miata (this may just because I had a short-shifter on the Miata), but is silky-smooth.

IMHO the RX-8 is just as much fun to drive, even without a drop top. I think Mazda has come up with a winner with the RX-8. Fun AND practical!

Dave

 

As in the RX8 brakes are that much better, or that much worse.

And which year/model Miata do you have (because that makes a difference in brake setup too, of course)?

---jps