Hello all!

OK so I'm obviously a noob, so forgive me for being...well noobish. I have been a car admirer for some time now. I've always loved cars and some day hope to own myself a Mitsubishi lancer evolution (yes my dream car) although at this point in time, I would like to start a little smaller.

OK so let me get my story out there for a little better understanding. I am a 21 year old college student currently working at PetSmart (laugh, I know) making about 8 bucks an hour. I've been driving a Ford Explorer XLT since I got my learners in 2004/2005. It has been a great vehicle and I love it dearly, but at 165k miles and MPG That leave a lot to be desired, I think its time to put the old boy to rest. Now, like I've said, I've been a big car Guy since I started driving. I love being around cars, driving them and starring at them. Although I have not had the chance to actually get my hands dirty and work on a car, both for maintainience and fun. And I would really like to learn.

Now here is where I'm at now. I'm still running the explorer and hoping to sell for 3500(if I'm even remotely luck) plus some other money from a special fund and What not. So I have been looking for a car in the 10kish price range. And that's what brings me to the RX8 and now these forums. Essentially I would like to get into something that is fun to drive, gets better MPG than my explorer and is a good learning platform. Although I do have my obvious concerns. I know the rx8 has had Its fair share of problems with the engine and such...

OK so first up, I know the engine has had some problems with flooding and whatnot And there was a LARGE recall on the 04/05 models. If I were to buy used, what are the chances the recall has been taken care of? And if not, can I still get it done or is it all based on the warranty? I would hate to get into the car and then pour a significant amount of money into it just to have it run properly.

Next: I know the rotary engine is a fairly complex engine, but is it easily accessiable to someone with little knowledge of engines? I am more than willing (and plan) to read through manuals and parts break Downs to fully understand the ins and outs of this car. That obviously includes routine maitenece and the like. This is my first REAL car and I plan to love it and learn it.

Also I hear so many conflicting reports of the typical fuel economy. Some say they get 16-20 MPG, others 18-26. Is there any clear cut standard? One of the biggest reasons I want a new car is for the cheaper gas each week. As it stands, I'm roughly paying 55 bucks every 4-5 days at 2.75 a gallon on unleaded. And rocking an impressive 10-12mpg.

And lastly, do you think this is a good car for me? I love standard transmission. I love power. I love those double takes. I love the "feel" of a car when you know that it is just right for you. And even though I have yet to test drive or even see one up close, I feel confident that this may be my next car. What do you think?

Thank you all in advance!!

 

the 04/05 had a ECU program thats not injecting enough oil onto the rotor seals caused prematurely seal failures. Mazda then extended engine warranty to 8 years or 100k miles and thats with the car not the owner. so if the engine fails within that time or millage you get a new engine, but you still need to pay for fluids and some parts just not the labor and the engine. as for recalls I believe they are free if not call Mazda and give them the VIN they should be able to tell you if they are performed.

rotary engine is actually pretty simple but theres a trade off for that simplicity that is it burns oil and drinks a lot of gas. you'll be looking at 16/22 MPG. as long as you keep the oil up and not turning the engine off cold (assume the car still has the old version starter and the coils are weak), you should be ok. it doesnt need extra attention other than just change oil and sometimes spark plugs and coils.

if you looking for a cheap car to run RX8 is not your choice. 16/20 MPG and you need premium thats about 3 bucks a gallon now.

I'd suggest you test drive one. we cant say if its your type of car but it certainly my type of car but thats rather irrelevant.

 

Read through this thread. It will answer everything and give you a really good base of info.

New and Potential Owners

On a limited budget, the 8 can leave you strapped. It is however a fantastic car and very rewarding to drive.

Read the FAQ'a and stickies here. Go drive a few. Be sure to get a compression test on any 8 you're planning to buy, and request service records. If the dealership can't give them to you, Mazda North America can.