Background-----It's been a looooong time since I posted. Was originally going to purchase an '04 Rx8 when they first came out, but my insurance settlement check wasn't available yet. After I did finally get it, I had more than I needed, and ended up getting an '02 Corvette Z06. Loved it, but had to sell it a few months ago for personal/family issues. So, I'm driving around in an '05 Saturn right now.

I have tried to keep an eye on this board since I've always loved the RX8, but to be honest, most of my time was spent on corvetteforum.com, (for obvious reasons). I've already come to terms with the fact that I won't be getting back into a Vette anytime withing the next 3-5 years, but I've had enough of this no-go Saturn sedan....lol. Hence, I've come back to what I was oringally attracted too, an RX8.

Have there been any changes, minor or not, from the '04 to the '05? Have the QC issues that were going on w/alot of the initial shipments last year been fixed, or at least reduced? I did notice that they no longer offer the Yellow for the '05 model. WTF is that about? lol. Any insights into changes is much appreciated.

BTW - I look foward to contributing here once again, even though it has been awhile. Thanks in advance all.

-IwantmyC5

 

theres nothing much changed from '04 to '05. the only things different is that there's no yellow, which is replaced by pearl white, and the '05 retractable key. its not really worth if for the bang for your buck. you can get an '04 for a great deal, just make sure you get a late build date.

 

How late would you suggest to be safe and why?

 

i would say about april and later, you can never be too sure though. but this is when they already have the latest M flash on the car. if you would like look through this website http://www.finishlineperformance.com...ocs/index.html for service bulletin information.

 

I owned a 2004 model from July thru Oct 2003. The car got purchased form Mazda on late October... Since then, I also got divorced which did hurt my wallet!!!
I re-purchased a 2005 model in September of this year ---> what a difference I can tell you! Here are the specific issues I noticed that were fixed on my 05:
- Gas consumption: 04 = average 260km - 05 = average 320 km
- Oil consumption: 04 = 1 quart every 700km - 05 = 1 quart every 2000km
- AC: 04 = lack of power - 05 PERFECT
- Engine: 05 much more linear and feels a lot more powerful (M flash)
- Driving attitude: 05 fells like a real sport car. 04 felt good, but not the same (the lacked of maturity - building process?)
I am truly amazed in the maturity of my 2005. I would recommend a 2005 anything time over any car in the same price bracket (except for the Acura TL which is a front wheel drive...). Don't hesitate to purchase a 2005 model. You will not be disappointed.
ps Sorry if I screw up a couple of English words... my first language is French.

 

Hey, my 8 is a July '03 build date. I have had ZERO issues. The engine is solid, the A/C is cold, the MPG is normal!! Only one trip to the dealer for the M-flash and to replace a dead battery!! (I left the trunk open!!) I'm not saying every '04 is just as good as the '05's. I'm just saying mine has been perfect.

Why did you have to gid rid of the Z06? I bet that was a trip to drive? How would YOU compare the Vette and the 8?

- Irish

 

Do you think that it is the model year or could it just be the M flash that affected the mileage, power, and I am not sure about "driving attitude".

What was the vin or build date of your 04?

 

Build date of Aug of '03 , M-Flashed in June .......zero problems