The base 6sp RX8 has the same engine, suspension and brakes. The only "drivers" option available on the 6sp RX8 is the DSC. Since the RX8 is an extremely well balanced, stable sports car with a great limited-slip differential and ABS I don't think the DSC will be missed by most drivers. On test drives I drove both DSC and non-DSC cars and didn't notice any difference. The non-DSC actually feels like it has traction control due to the limited slip (unless you stomp the gas on a wet road in the middle of a turn.) The RX8 is a very easy to drive performance car, it doesn't have any nasty surprises waiting for those driving with DSC off.

I bought the base model, and can't think of any option available that I miss.

--Dave.

PS. If you're getting the automatic, then get the sports model for the better suspension, brakes and wheels, and realize that with only 7500rpm available, it's going to be a much slower car.

 

If I could just add Xenons as a stand-alone option to the base model, that'd be my first choice.

But I do want the Xenons and the DSC, not for me, but for when my wife drives the car. It's just a bit safer dynamically for her.

Otherwise, the base is quite good.

 

I have the base Canadian model and am extremely happy with it. The lights are way better then my 2001 Passat and i prefer not to have DSC and driving aids since i like to control my car and not be controlled by it. Sure leather is fun and my GF misses the butt warmer but i have 3000$ more in my pocket and bought a winter car with it, saving my 8 of all the salt and rocks of the Mtl winter.

 

Agreed.

 

I have the base model, and it rocks. Think of it this way...it is faster than any other RX-8--less weight!