Sure, it can be turbocharged. Practically any engine can be turbocharged, even the Renesis. The resulting power is just a matter of tuning. But with it's high compression, sleeve-style or "open-deck" block (if I remember correctly), and lack of piston oil squirters (again, IIRC), it isn't built for, nor does it lend itself particularly well to turbocharging.

---jps

 

I did some acceleration estimates for different weights for the AUTOMATIC rx-8 using the US spec gearing ratios. This may give some idea of how the final weight will affect acceleration times.

SPECS:
hp: ............... 208 @ 7200
torque: ........... 164 @ 5000
redline: .......... 8000 rpm
wheels: ........... 225/45R18
driver weight: .... 165 lbs
fuel weight: ...... 30 lbs
drag coeff: ....... .30
Air temp: ......... 65 degrees F

curb weight:........ 2950 lbs :
0-60: ........... 7.02 seconds
1/4: ............. 15.19 @ 92.45 MPH

curb weight:........ 3000 lbs :
0-60: ........... 7.09 seconds
1/4: ............. 15.24 @ 92.16 MPH

curb weight:........ 3050 lbs :
0-60: ........... 7.17 seconds
1/4: ............. 15.31 @ 91.90 MPH

Brian

 

i know it's a lot, but take an hour and learn. :D

 

bump

 

What a fantastic thread... thanks all, especially buger.

How does the shift / drivetrain action compare between the RX8 and the S2000? This is important in any NA car.

The 8 you can into any gear at any time with great rapidity - which means you can really use the revs. I didn't drive an S2000 when I was looking because I just didn't like the cockpit or driving position, and I think I remember playing with the clutch and shift with the ignition off and going "urgh". Lots of people who've sat in the driver's side of my yellow fellow make remarks like "wow, you could really chuck this around".

 

why are the whts different on the 8's sold in Europe (11lbs) lighter

 

The S2000's shifter is significantly more precise and has shorter throws. The RX-8 is really good, but does not quite match Honda's shifter--it's more rubbery and has longer travel.