Want to buy but am scared
06-15-2010 | 07:16 PM
#1
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From: WI
Want to buy but am scared
I am a little freaked out about getting an RX-8 mostly for the engine issues but also for winter handling. So I would love to discuss on how it is to own one of these beautiful cars in the day to day with some of you owners out there.
First the flooding issue. I get the impression that this happens to every RX-8 owner despite best attempts to follow precautions. First off I'm thinking about getting a 2005 6-speed and am shooting for ~50,000 mileage. I have heard that Mazda has fixed the issue with the newer models 2009-10. Is this at all true?, and if so what exactly did they change, and could I make the same changes later on my car?
I have also heard that the engine loses noticeable compression in hot weather from a disgruntled online reviewer. I have also heard that Rx-8s have trouble starting in cold weather and if they sit for too long, smoke will start coming out of the tailpipes when starting up. I would appreciate some input from those that have driven their cars on long road trips.
I am a pretty good driver, my previous car was a Toyota Celica 1990 which wasn't the best in the snow but I managed to drive it in a snow blizzard before (with minor drifting in the snow). I understand the standard tires aren't the best but is the car drivable in winter with snow tires?
First the flooding issue. I get the impression that this happens to every RX-8 owner despite best attempts to follow precautions. First off I'm thinking about getting a 2005 6-speed and am shooting for ~50,000 mileage. I have heard that Mazda has fixed the issue with the newer models 2009-10. Is this at all true?, and if so what exactly did they change, and could I make the same changes later on my car?
I have also heard that the engine loses noticeable compression in hot weather from a disgruntled online reviewer. I have also heard that Rx-8s have trouble starting in cold weather and if they sit for too long, smoke will start coming out of the tailpipes when starting up. I would appreciate some input from those that have driven their cars on long road trips.
I am a pretty good driver, my previous car was a Toyota Celica 1990 which wasn't the best in the snow but I managed to drive it in a snow blizzard before (with minor drifting in the snow). I understand the standard tires aren't the best but is the car drivable in winter with snow tires?
06-15-2010 | 07:30 PM
#2
Flooding:
Going to quote something I posted elsewhere...
Winter Driving:
Also throwing in that I have driven my 8 through the last 3 New England winters. The car you have doesn't matter for anything but sheer ground clearance. FWD vehicles and SUVs are more likely to have more winter friendly tires on OEM, sports cars are more likely to have OEM summer tires, and this is where the difference is. As long as you have ground clearance though, my 8, with winter tires, will out-drive any SUV or jeep on OEM tires. My work is on a hill, the highest point in the state, and each winter I regularly climb the last steep hill into work, often winding my way around stuck SUVs and trucks.
Outside of tires, the 8 is low torque, more weight over the rear than most big engined sports cars, and a great set of driver aids. My only concern for driving it in the winter at all is the salt.
The only time I got stuck was when it started dumping snow and the plows were not sent out until literally half of the state was stranded in gridlock and ditches, and the snow was simply too deep to push through. The low ground clearance was a bonus though, I was one of the first stuck, and thus got one of the only tow trucks. The tow truck got stuck on my street about 30 yards from my driveway after dropping my 8 off. Even he needed the extra weight at that point.
Otherwise I love it
Long trips:
I drive my 8 on long trips all the time. Last year I drove to and from MD (~800 mile round trip minimum) 18? times. This year, somewhat less, but no concern at all on doing a 7,390 mile drive to Sevenstock and then up the west coast and back.
Hot weather:
Hot weather is more of a concern with 8s, but I am talking like constant days of over 100f, and there are still very good aftermarket mods to improve cooling considerably. BHR is based in Phoenix AZ, and cooling is something they constantly work on improving. But hot weather just because it is harder to keep the engine cool. If engine temperature is affecting your compression, then you are already on a downhill slope towards engine failure. A healthy engine's compression shouldn't be affected by ambient temp.
61,000 miles, bought it at 8,600 miles, daily drive it, and I wouldn't take anything else. Even bad conditions are so much more pleasant and easy to deal with in my 8 than any other car.
Edit:
You may also consider reading this thread. https://www.rx8club.com/purchasing-financing-insurance-56/oh-temptation-196565/
The OP is a teenager, but I typed up alot of information there.
Going to quote something I posted elsewhere...
Flooding is only a concern if you have a weak ignition system. The problem is, your ignition system usually fails very slowly, so it is a gradual decline. The alert and responsible owner will detect the drop in mileage, the drop in power, the rougher idle, the occasional misfire, and replace their coils, plugs, and wires before it gets bad enough where there is a chance at flooding.
Every single flood I have seen reported for the past year or so ended up coming down to a failing or failed coil or spark plug or spark plug wire. But by then, they also generally have a fried cat that needs to get replaced as well, and possibly an O2 sensor or two. Stay on top of the maintenance (long term included!) and you will wonder what all the fuss was about. Coils ($160 for all 4, 20 minute swap), plugs ($80 for all 4, 10 minute swap), and wires ($50-140, depending on quality, 2 minute swap), should be replaced every 30,000 miles, possibly sooner if you detect something starting to fail, since people have had them fail as early as 8,000 miles or 15,000 miles, though that's rare.
You don't want to shut off while it's cold simply because when the engine is cold, the ECU dumps more fuel into engine to help it warm up, and it leans back once the engine is warm. This extra fuel can make it harder to start an ignition, which a healthy ignition system is perfectly capable of overcoming. Weaken the ignition with failing plugs, coils, wires, alternator, or battery, and you have a flood on your hands, and all the associated problems from that.
Every single flood I have seen reported for the past year or so ended up coming down to a failing or failed coil or spark plug or spark plug wire. But by then, they also generally have a fried cat that needs to get replaced as well, and possibly an O2 sensor or two. Stay on top of the maintenance (long term included!) and you will wonder what all the fuss was about. Coils ($160 for all 4, 20 minute swap), plugs ($80 for all 4, 10 minute swap), and wires ($50-140, depending on quality, 2 minute swap), should be replaced every 30,000 miles, possibly sooner if you detect something starting to fail, since people have had them fail as early as 8,000 miles or 15,000 miles, though that's rare.
You don't want to shut off while it's cold simply because when the engine is cold, the ECU dumps more fuel into engine to help it warm up, and it leans back once the engine is warm. This extra fuel can make it harder to start an ignition, which a healthy ignition system is perfectly capable of overcoming. Weaken the ignition with failing plugs, coils, wires, alternator, or battery, and you have a flood on your hands, and all the associated problems from that.
Winter Driving:
I would recommend working on getting a set of alternate rims and winter tires. The rims can be complete garbage (mine are mismatched 
), but it makes any winter condition drivable, and even fun! (as long as you are still clearing the snow with your air dam, but if you aren't, no one else should be on the road there anyway, the government would probably be shut down) If you take this route, buy them sometime between now and September, when the prices start climbing on them again. Get them in the summer when no one is looking and you can pay significantly less.
Cold itself is nothing to worry about unless your ignition system is weak. Stay on top of your ignition system (learn to subconsciously pay attention to the stability of the revs and how smooth, or not, the power band is, etc... Start feeling that hesistation and roughness, and it doesn't go away with WOT runs to redline, your ignition system is starting the downhill. Doesn't mean it will go right away, but the longer you wait, the greater and greater your flood risk, power loss, and mileage drop.
), but it makes any winter condition drivable, and even fun! (as long as you are still clearing the snow with your air dam, but if you aren't, no one else should be on the road there anyway, the government would probably be shut down) If you take this route, buy them sometime between now and September, when the prices start climbing on them again. Get them in the summer when no one is looking and you can pay significantly less.Cold itself is nothing to worry about unless your ignition system is weak. Stay on top of your ignition system (learn to subconsciously pay attention to the stability of the revs and how smooth, or not, the power band is, etc... Start feeling that hesistation and roughness, and it doesn't go away with WOT runs to redline, your ignition system is starting the downhill. Doesn't mean it will go right away, but the longer you wait, the greater and greater your flood risk, power loss, and mileage drop.
Outside of tires, the 8 is low torque, more weight over the rear than most big engined sports cars, and a great set of driver aids. My only concern for driving it in the winter at all is the salt.
The only time I got stuck was when it started dumping snow and the plows were not sent out until literally half of the state was stranded in gridlock and ditches, and the snow was simply too deep to push through. The low ground clearance was a bonus though, I was one of the first stuck, and thus got one of the only tow trucks. The tow truck got stuck on my street about 30 yards from my driveway after dropping my 8 off. Even he needed the extra weight at that point.Otherwise I love it
Long trips:
I drive my 8 on long trips all the time. Last year I drove to and from MD (~800 mile round trip minimum) 18? times. This year, somewhat less, but no concern at all on doing a 7,390 mile drive to Sevenstock and then up the west coast and back.
Hot weather:
Hot weather is more of a concern with 8s, but I am talking like constant days of over 100f, and there are still very good aftermarket mods to improve cooling considerably. BHR is based in Phoenix AZ, and cooling is something they constantly work on improving. But hot weather just because it is harder to keep the engine cool. If engine temperature is affecting your compression, then you are already on a downhill slope towards engine failure. A healthy engine's compression shouldn't be affected by ambient temp.
61,000 miles, bought it at 8,600 miles, daily drive it, and I wouldn't take anything else. Even bad conditions are so much more pleasant and easy to deal with in my 8 than any other car.
Edit:
You may also consider reading this thread. https://www.rx8club.com/purchasing-financing-insurance-56/oh-temptation-196565/
The OP is a teenager, but I typed up alot of information there.
Last edited by RIWWP; 06-15-2010 at 07:38 PM.
06-15-2010 | 07:34 PM
#3
EDIT: ^ you beat me to it with a better response
flooding doesnt happen to every owner....Ive never had any problems in 20k miles
second: they did make some changes to the series to renny but you cannot make those to yours later on even if you wanted. (dont want to type it all here but there are threads already taht discuss the changes.
third: there has been somewhat of a problem with losing compression in some of the engines but that is why there is the 8 year 100k warranty for the engine core from mazda (you will have this if you own one)
fourth:the smoke that comes out of the tailpipes is simply condensation occuring within the exhaust system, nothing to really worry about.
fifth. Yes the renny takes a little longer to start sometimes from a weak starter fromt he factory in the early models however if your starter fails there is always an upgraded starter you can put on to avoid future problems.
sixth: as for long road trips its very similar to every other car in the world.
seventh: the tires make it or break it on every rear wheel drive vehicle. get a decent set of snow tires for the winter and you should have no problems getting around
hope this helps and hope I didnt tell you something wrong/jacked up
flooding doesnt happen to every owner....Ive never had any problems in 20k miles
second: they did make some changes to the series to renny but you cannot make those to yours later on even if you wanted. (dont want to type it all here but there are threads already taht discuss the changes.
third: there has been somewhat of a problem with losing compression in some of the engines but that is why there is the 8 year 100k warranty for the engine core from mazda (you will have this if you own one)
fourth:the smoke that comes out of the tailpipes is simply condensation occuring within the exhaust system, nothing to really worry about.
fifth. Yes the renny takes a little longer to start sometimes from a weak starter fromt he factory in the early models however if your starter fails there is always an upgraded starter you can put on to avoid future problems.
sixth: as for long road trips its very similar to every other car in the world.
seventh: the tires make it or break it on every rear wheel drive vehicle. get a decent set of snow tires for the winter and you should have no problems getting around
hope this helps and hope I didnt tell you something wrong/jacked up
06-15-2010 | 08:30 PM
#4
Don't be scared. All you need is to devote some time and learn about the rx-8. I would advise you before you get in the process of buying one to explore this forum. Everything you need to know is in this GREAT FORUM. Do not listen to what non rx8 owners say.
06-15-2010 | 09:39 PM
#5
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From: Buddhist Monastery, High Himalaya Mtns. of Tibet
I'm from the suburban Chicago area. You get a little more snow than we do, but not that much. I have roads that get plowed pretty well and I get around on all-season tires without getting stuck. Except one time in Michigan when I was trying to go through so much snow that I got high centered. My car is now lowered, so I expect that I may be late getting to my destination once or twice a winter. If you live in an area where snow accumulates, definitely get snow tires.
I, in 65,000 miles, have never flooded. My RX7's never did either.
Twice I have taken the trip non-stop (except for gas) to Daytona. Thats a 16-18 hr trip. It was very comfortable to drive. The only problem I had was fatigue. But, that would happen with any car when driven that long. Maybe, even sooner.
Contact the RX Club of Wisconsin. There may be a meet near you or someone near by will agree to meet with you to answer some questions.
I, in 65,000 miles, have never flooded. My RX7's never did either.
Twice I have taken the trip non-stop (except for gas) to Daytona. Thats a 16-18 hr trip. It was very comfortable to drive. The only problem I had was fatigue. But, that would happen with any car when driven that long. Maybe, even sooner.
Contact the RX Club of Wisconsin. There may be a meet near you or someone near by will agree to meet with you to answer some questions.
06-15-2010 | 09:53 PM
#6
i didn't flood mine in 35k. Notice i said, "i didn't" -- flooding is not an issue with the cars, it is an issue with the owners. it is right there in manual. do not start this car and turn it off before it is warmed then try to start it again right away. not very difficult.
Still, like all idiots, i did exactly that a few times with no repercussions. i doubt you'll have any need for concern.
i wouldn't buy one that has been flooded though. however, with proper deflooding, it's fine.
i only care what comes out of the tailpipe if it's flames! lol, no de-cat. the environment is fukced.
most of these cars are very reliable. and the important warranties are very long. just drive the crap out of it.
Still, like all idiots, i did exactly that a few times with no repercussions. i doubt you'll have any need for concern.
i wouldn't buy one that has been flooded though. however, with proper deflooding, it's fine.
i only care what comes out of the tailpipe if it's flames! lol, no de-cat. the environment is fukced.
most of these cars are very reliable. and the important warranties are very long. just drive the crap out of it.
06-15-2010 | 10:27 PM
#7
I was in your postition about a month ago, a little apprehensive but i gave in and bought the car. Today i absolutely love the car, its just a blast to drive and it gets looks all the time. Just spend some time reading up on the forum and taking the advice from the seasoned members and gain knowledge of the car. I definitely feel i made the right choice with such a great car and the best thing is driving the car hard will only benefit it.
06-15-2010 | 11:19 PM
#8
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From: NYC
Where did your poor impressions of the 8 come from… this forum? Realize that any car forum will disproportionately contain negative/problem threads; owners with problems are the ones who bother to find car forums and post there, looking for solutions or, at least, sympathy. (Misery loves company.) The vast majority of satisfied car owners of any brand have no reason to go online and find their car's forum, let alone posting to announce that they're not having major problems.
Most people here will tell you that the 8 - with its rotary engine - requires a certain minimal amount of attention that regular cars don't. Simple things like checking the oil level regularly, and not turning off the engine if it's still cold. I think it's safe to assume that many, many 8 owners failed to follow these simple rules. And when they didn't, their cars flooded or developed engine problems. I would bet you any amount of money that if every RX-8 owner religiously followed these simple maintenance guidelines, relatively few 8s would have problems. The RX-8 is simply less forgiving of owner neglect than other cars. That's just my opinion.
To counter casual owner neglect, Mazda equipped 8s with a larger battery in 2006. The larger battery let more owners "get away" with turning off the engine before it was warm. I believe the incidence of flooding dropped to the point where, today, it's not thought of as a "problem".
I've had my 8 almost 4 1/2 years and it's never flooded. I feel more confident driving it in winter (with winter tires) than I would in a FWD car with just all-seasons. I've had zero engine problems; the car seems stronger today than when I bought it. I feel it's as reliable as any car I've owned; in fact I don't give my 8s reliability a second thought.
Over the years, Consumer Reports has rated the 8's reliability anywhere from above average to below. Overall, they feel it's a used car to avoid - but as I've said, I believe most problems stem from owner neglect. The '09 and '10 RX-8s have a slightly redesigned oiling system for the engine. Many here point to this as proof that the 2004-2008 engine had design flaws in this regard. Personally I believe Mazda modified the design to increase the margin of error from owner neglect. Just my 2¢.
Buy one, take care of it - and enjoy. And, above all… relax.
Most people here will tell you that the 8 - with its rotary engine - requires a certain minimal amount of attention that regular cars don't. Simple things like checking the oil level regularly, and not turning off the engine if it's still cold. I think it's safe to assume that many, many 8 owners failed to follow these simple rules. And when they didn't, their cars flooded or developed engine problems. I would bet you any amount of money that if every RX-8 owner religiously followed these simple maintenance guidelines, relatively few 8s would have problems. The RX-8 is simply less forgiving of owner neglect than other cars. That's just my opinion.
To counter casual owner neglect, Mazda equipped 8s with a larger battery in 2006. The larger battery let more owners "get away" with turning off the engine before it was warm. I believe the incidence of flooding dropped to the point where, today, it's not thought of as a "problem".
I've had my 8 almost 4 1/2 years and it's never flooded. I feel more confident driving it in winter (with winter tires) than I would in a FWD car with just all-seasons. I've had zero engine problems; the car seems stronger today than when I bought it. I feel it's as reliable as any car I've owned; in fact I don't give my 8s reliability a second thought.
Over the years, Consumer Reports has rated the 8's reliability anywhere from above average to below. Overall, they feel it's a used car to avoid - but as I've said, I believe most problems stem from owner neglect. The '09 and '10 RX-8s have a slightly redesigned oiling system for the engine. Many here point to this as proof that the 2004-2008 engine had design flaws in this regard. Personally I believe Mazda modified the design to increase the margin of error from owner neglect. Just my 2¢.
Buy one, take care of it - and enjoy. And, above all… relax.
06-16-2010 | 09:17 AM
#9
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From: PA
I am in the same boat as strata. I have been intrigued about the 8s since I have laid my eyes on one. Their prices are pretty good and performance seems great.
I am a college student and I am looking for a sports car without too many maintenance problems. the 8 caught my eyes but is there alot of maintenance issues with it?
The MPG is a problem but I am willing to over look that if its reliable for me to drive around all the time and not require visit the mechanic all the time.
I am a college student and I am looking for a sports car without too many maintenance problems. the 8 caught my eyes but is there alot of maintenance issues with it?
The MPG is a problem but I am willing to over look that if its reliable for me to drive around all the time and not require visit the mechanic all the time.
06-16-2010 | 09:42 AM
#10
Maintenance issues? visiting mechanic all the time?
As listed all up above..
If you know basic knowledge, do your own oil changes, if the car feels funny try and solve the problem before it gets worse.
usually what the Girlfriends do, theres something wrong with there car but they wait till its broke then ask you to check it out..
I got 21mpg on my last tank gas.. but the next went to 16... lolol all in how you drive
I have never had a flooding problem with my car, its an 07 but i put 64k miles on it all ready. so its doubled daily driven!
College student, your buddies will tell you its a slow car and want to race, dont give your hopes up, just take the next corner when they are behind you and see if they keep up.
Good luck, and use search button
As listed all up above..
If you know basic knowledge, do your own oil changes, if the car feels funny try and solve the problem before it gets worse.
usually what the Girlfriends do, theres something wrong with there car but they wait till its broke then ask you to check it out..
I got 21mpg on my last tank gas.. but the next went to 16... lolol all in how you drive
I have never had a flooding problem with my car, its an 07 but i put 64k miles on it all ready. so its doubled daily driven!
College student, your buddies will tell you its a slow car and want to race, dont give your hopes up, just take the next corner when they are behind you and see if they keep up.
Good luck, and use search button
06-16-2010 | 09:52 AM
#12
"...happens to every '8 owner..." ???
Flooding - has never happened to me and I have a '05.
Loss of compression - ditto
Keep in mind that most automotive forums primarily exist to assist those with problems. Ergo the propensity of problem posts. You're not likely to see many threads entitled "I have no problems" (although in frustration I did start one some time back
"I sense much fear in this one." Fear not.
Do pay attention to oil level, as the engine is designed to burn some. Also do use the range of rev's, to preclude carbon buildup ("a redline beep a day ...").
The clutch pedal base spot welds have proven to be problematic, but there are preventive fixes for that.
Otherwise just proper maintenance, as you would any sportscar (and should for any other car).
Flooding - has never happened to me and I have a '05.
Loss of compression - ditto
Keep in mind that most automotive forums primarily exist to assist those with problems. Ergo the propensity of problem posts. You're not likely to see many threads entitled "I have no problems" (although in frustration I did start one some time back
"I sense much fear in this one." Fear not.
Do pay attention to oil level, as the engine is designed to burn some. Also do use the range of rev's, to preclude carbon buildup ("a redline beep a day ...").
The clutch pedal base spot welds have proven to be problematic, but there are preventive fixes for that.
Otherwise just proper maintenance, as you would any sportscar (and should for any other car).
I am a little freaked out about getting an RX-8 mostly for the engine issues but also for winter handling. So I would love to discuss on how it is to own one of these beautiful cars in the day to day with some of you owners out there.
First the flooding issue. I get the impression that this happens to every RX-8 owner despite best attempts to follow precautions. First off I'm thinking about getting a 2005 6-speed and am shooting for ~50,000 mileage. I have heard that Mazda has fixed the issue with the newer models 2009-10. Is this at all true?, and if so what exactly did they change, and could I make the same changes later on my car?
I have also heard that the engine loses noticeable compression in hot weather from a disgruntled online reviewer. I have also heard that Rx-8s have trouble starting in cold weather and if they sit for too long, smoke will start coming out of the tailpipes when starting up. I would appreciate some input from those that have driven their cars on long road trips.
I am a pretty good driver, my previous car was a Toyota Celica 1990 which wasn't the best in the snow but I managed to drive it in a snow blizzard before (with minor drifting in the snow). I understand the standard tires aren't the best but is the car drivable in winter with snow tires?
First the flooding issue. I get the impression that this happens to every RX-8 owner despite best attempts to follow precautions. First off I'm thinking about getting a 2005 6-speed and am shooting for ~50,000 mileage. I have heard that Mazda has fixed the issue with the newer models 2009-10. Is this at all true?, and if so what exactly did they change, and could I make the same changes later on my car?
I have also heard that the engine loses noticeable compression in hot weather from a disgruntled online reviewer. I have also heard that Rx-8s have trouble starting in cold weather and if they sit for too long, smoke will start coming out of the tailpipes when starting up. I would appreciate some input from those that have driven their cars on long road trips.
I am a pretty good driver, my previous car was a Toyota Celica 1990 which wasn't the best in the snow but I managed to drive it in a snow blizzard before (with minor drifting in the snow). I understand the standard tires aren't the best but is the car drivable in winter with snow tires?
06-16-2010 | 10:49 AM
#14
Destroyer of Guilds!!!!
Joined: Sep 2007
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From: Long Island, NY
I was on the same boat as you, I got my RX8 back in October of 2006, it's an 04 and it had 64k miles on it. Had the car checked out by the dealership and everything was "ok" with the car. My biggest fear was that the engine would fail on me. I'll just skip ahead and tell you that right now it's sitting in front of my house with 114k miles on it collecting bird poop.
The engine started to fail at 99,500 but at the time I thought it was due to an ignition issue and not a compression issue. Mazda still wouldnt' help me out. I kept really good care of the engine, made sure to change the oil regularly (there's a shop across the street from my job so this was quite easy) and kept a case of oil in my trunk so that was never an issue.
I loved the car though and of course not everyone will have my same experience but it really sucks having a car loan still on a car that doesn't run.
*edit*
as far as flooding goes, I've never personally flooded the car but I've had the car flood on me. Tire shop despite me telling them not to turn the car on and off immediately in the dead of winter did so. That was expensive and needless to say didn't go back to that tire shop again.
*edit 2*
I've had the clutch pedal snap on me while driving in highway traffic. That under any circumstances should just NEVER happen. Imagine that happening to your brakes??? Just shoddy on Mazda's part and as far as I know haven't fixed the issue.
The engine started to fail at 99,500 but at the time I thought it was due to an ignition issue and not a compression issue. Mazda still wouldnt' help me out. I kept really good care of the engine, made sure to change the oil regularly (there's a shop across the street from my job so this was quite easy) and kept a case of oil in my trunk so that was never an issue.
I loved the car though and of course not everyone will have my same experience but it really sucks having a car loan still on a car that doesn't run.
*edit*
as far as flooding goes, I've never personally flooded the car but I've had the car flood on me. Tire shop despite me telling them not to turn the car on and off immediately in the dead of winter did so. That was expensive and needless to say didn't go back to that tire shop again.
*edit 2*
I've had the clutch pedal snap on me while driving in highway traffic. That under any circumstances should just NEVER happen. Imagine that happening to your brakes??? Just shoddy on Mazda's part and as far as I know haven't fixed the issue.
Last edited by UniBroW; 06-16-2010 at 10:52 AM.
06-16-2010 | 10:54 AM
#15
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Joined: Jun 2010
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From: WI
so i test drove a 2010 RX-8 today. I absolutely love the car from the inside and out but I was very surprised about how small the car is. my Celica had about as much rear leg room and a much bigger trunk space. i'll settle though. i love how damn comfortable and quiet these cars are at highway speeds. the digital readout display is gonna take some time to get used to, i took my focus off for just a moment and was suddenly going 85! for the longest time i was debating between the rx-8 and the subaru impreza wrx, however, i could only afford the 2002-2003 models which are ugly as hell, completely unlike the rx-8. now i think i'm going to end up getting the 8.
thanks for all the input, i was watching too many youtube videos of flooding problems but most reputable reviewing websites and the helpful responses from everyone that responded has eased my worry.
oh another thing i loved was how i drifted out of the dealership. i underestimated the torque the car does have in 1st gear! i will have to watch that if i buy one.
thanks for all the input, i was watching too many youtube videos of flooding problems but most reputable reviewing websites and the helpful responses from everyone that responded has eased my worry.
oh another thing i loved was how i drifted out of the dealership. i underestimated the torque the car does have in 1st gear! i will have to watch that if i buy one.
06-16-2010 | 11:32 AM
#16
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From: Buddhist Monastery, High Himalaya Mtns. of Tibet
The Subaru WRX is a factory moded up Impreza econo box. It's not even in the same category as the RX8. It will never handle as well or be as comfortable on long drives.
06-16-2010 | 11:49 AM
#17
100% typical
Most new owners have this experience shortly after purchase.
Mine was on the drive back from Ohio the day of purchase, encountered another 8, and in the twisting mountain roads with no one on the road but us for quite a while, I got lost in the fun and revs, and it was only when I passed another car like it was standing still did it really wake me up to me speed. I glanced down ...123!
This car just doesn't feel like others at speed, very easy to control, very comfortable, doesn't fight you or threaten to shake apart.
So yeah... it happens
Most new owners have this experience shortly after purchase.
Mine was on the drive back from Ohio the day of purchase, encountered another 8, and in the twisting mountain roads with no one on the road but us for quite a while, I got lost in the fun and revs, and it was only when I passed another car like it was standing still did it really wake me up to me speed. I glanced down ...123!
This car just doesn't feel like others at speed, very easy to control, very comfortable, doesn't fight you or threaten to shake apart.
So yeah... it happens
06-16-2010 | 11:50 AM
#18
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Joined: Jun 2010
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From: WI
I'm sorry but you clearly don't know what you are talking about. The Subaru Impreza WRX is famous for it race caliber as being one of the most successful rally cars in the world. The WRX is AWD so it handles very well too. I don't know about comfort as I haven't test driven a WRX yet, but you should get your facts straight so you don't go around making false statements.
06-16-2010 | 11:54 AM
#20
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Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 3,487
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From: Omaha, NE
so i test drove a 2010 RX-8 today. I absolutely love the car from the inside and out but I was very surprised about how small the car is. my Celica had about as much rear leg room and a much bigger trunk space. i'll settle though. i love how damn comfortable and quiet these cars are at highway speeds. the digital readout display is gonna take some time to get used to, i took my focus off for just a moment and was suddenly going 85! for the longest time i was debating between the rx-8 and the subaru impreza wrx, however, i could only afford the 2002-2003 models which are ugly as hell, completely unlike the rx-8. now i think i'm going to end up getting the 8.
thanks for all the input, i was watching too many youtube videos of flooding problems but most reputable reviewing websites and the helpful responses from everyone that responded has eased my worry.
oh another thing i loved was how i drifted out of the dealership. i underestimated the torque the car does have in 1st gear! i will have to watch that if i buy one.
thanks for all the input, i was watching too many youtube videos of flooding problems but most reputable reviewing websites and the helpful responses from everyone that responded has eased my worry.
oh another thing i loved was how i drifted out of the dealership. i underestimated the torque the car does have in 1st gear! i will have to watch that if i buy one.
RX8 is rwd, you get axles and stuff in the back
06-16-2010 | 11:55 AM
#21
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I am in the same boat as strata. I have been intrigued about the 8s since I have laid my eyes on one. Their prices are pretty good and performance seems great.
I am a college student and I am looking for a sports car without too many maintenance problems. the 8 caught my eyes but is there alot of maintenance issues with it?
The MPG is a problem but I am willing to over look that if its reliable for me to drive around all the time and not require visit the mechanic all the time.
I am a college student and I am looking for a sports car without too many maintenance problems. the 8 caught my eyes but is there alot of maintenance issues with it?
The MPG is a problem but I am willing to over look that if its reliable for me to drive around all the time and not require visit the mechanic all the time.
And as far as car problems, just do your research, buy some extra oil and keep it in the trunk, so every 2 fillups go ahead and top it off.
This ar is just such a blast to drive, put gas and oil in it, have fun, and repeat.
-future rx-8 owner
06-16-2010 | 11:58 AM
#22
I'm sorry but you clearly don't know what you are talking about. The Subaru Impreza WRX is famous for it race caliber as being one of the most successful rally cars in the world. The WRX is AWD so it handles very well too. I don't know about comfort as I haven't test driven a WRX yet, but you should get your facts straight so you don't go around making false statements.
06-16-2010 | 11:59 AM
#23
No really, I did! Triggered traction control even. Was somewhat startled. Then again, it was essentially a clutch drop shift that I didn't mean to do.
...with 116 posts? nice
06-16-2010 | 12:02 PM
#24
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Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 3,487
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From: Omaha, NE
I'm sorry but you clearly don't know what you are talking about. The Subaru Impreza WRX is famous for it race caliber as being one of the most successful rally cars in the world. The WRX is AWD so it handles very well too. I don't know about comfort as I haven't test driven a WRX yet, but you should get your facts straight so you don't go around making false statements.
now those AWD cars are too easy to drive, you just flick in, full throttle, the diff will get you outta trouble. besides, WRX's are ugly. especially the new one.