I've never added a link before... so hope this works.

http://www.drive.com.au/news/article...XB1MMNXHD.html

Otherwise look at www.drive.com.au

 

Thanks for that

 

Another great reveiw, all we in the UK need now is more of these great reviews in the press here.

Oh and of course our cars to be delivered........Roll on October.


Chris

 

neither of those links are working for me...the first one takes me to a blank page, the second to one with a banner that says "drive" and has some other add for building stuff


edit:
this is the working link: click me!!


edit 2:
read it, as expected, liked it. rx-8 comes out on top, as usual!
________
COACH PURSES

 

Triple treat -- RX-8 vs Monaro CV8 vs 350Z
By Cameron McGavin
The Age
Thursday July 10 2003

Buyers looking for a high-performance coupe that won't break the bank are once again spoilt for choice. Cameron McGavin road tests three of the best -- RX-8 vs Monaro CV8 vs 350Z.
Not long ago, the high-performance coupe appeared headed for extinction in Australia. The Mazda RX-7, Nissan 300ZX, Toyota Supra and other darlings of the 1980s and early '90s were spurned, as performance-oriented buyers became infatuated with lightweight sports like Mazda's MX-5 and all-wheel-drive turbo rally rockets such as the Subaru Impreza WRX and Mitsubishi Lancer GSR.

The coupe market appears to be gaining strength, however. Nissan's defunct 200SX can take some credit for holding the fort during the dark days, but it was the reborn Holden Monaro -- the Commodore-based reiteration of Australia's classic coupe of the '60s -- that really revived the segment when it launched in late 2001 and sold more than 4000 in its first year.

Now it's really getting hectic. Just a few months ago Nissan launched the striking 350Z, a faithful modern-day interpretation of its legendary Z-car, and now Mazda has entered the fray with its stunning RX-8, an innovative sports coupe with rotary power and suicide doors that makes no attempt to play by the established rules of the segment and is priced sharply enough to give rival car company execs a big case of heartburn.

Could we resist putting the spanking-new Mazda up against the Monaro and 350Z to find out which coupe does it best? Of course not.


Price and equipment
Holden Monaro CV8 -- 3.5 stars (out of 5)
Mazda RX-8 Leather Pack -- 4 stars
Nissan 350Z Track -- 3.5 stars

Taking first points in price is the RX-8, which at $56,170 for the base model undercuts both the Monaro CV8 and 350Z Touring by a handy margin. It's not a stripped-down model either, coming with climate control, cruise control, six-stack CD sound system, heated power mirrors, power windows, 18-inch alloys, a full complement of safety gear (twin front, front side and side curtain airbags, traction/stability control and anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution) and plenty of storage compartments.

We tested the top-spec RX-8 Leather Pack, which adds leather trim, xenon headlights, foglights, upgraded sound system and power-adjustable driver's seat for $62,610.

The $58,750 Monaro CV8 keeps the Mazda on its toes, but it misses out on some worthy features. Despite having standard power-adjustable front seats, leather trim, a trip computer and parking sensors, and matching the RX-8 in most departments, heated mirrors and opening rear windows are absent. But the real negative for the Monaro is its relative lack of safety gear. Twin front and side airbags, anti-lock brakes and traction control are all you get; no head-protecting curtain airbags or electronic safety systems such as stability control or brake assist are available.

Our CV8 was fitted with the optional satellite navigation system ($3695) and Holden Assist ($1990), which pushed the price up to $64,435, making it second-dearest of the group.

Like the RX-8, the 350Z comes in two trim levels. Kicking off the line-up is the Touring for $59,990, which has climate control, cruise control, trip computer, a six-stack CD sound system, an acceptable safety arsenal (twin front, front side and curtain airbags and anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist) and the group's only heated seats. No sign, however, of basic stuff such as a proper glovebox (just a lidded bin behind the passenger seat) or even vanity mirrors, so despite looking well equipped on paper, it feels sparse and uninviting alongside its rivals.

Ticking the box for the $65,990 Track model tested here brings 18-inch wheels (which the other two get standard), excellent Brembo brakes, stability control (standard on the RX-8) and a subtle bodykit. As the most expensive of the group, that's enough to drop it to a close third in the value race.


Engines and performance
Holden Monaro CV8 -- 4 stars
Mazda RX-8 Leather Pack -- 4 stars
Nissan 350Z Track -- 4 stars

The Monaro is the undisputed heavyweight of this group, at least on paper. Its 5.7-litre V8 is the biggest here and produces easily the most power (235kW) and torque (465Nm), and the big Holden also weighs about 300kg and 200kg more than the Mazda and Nissan respectively. But it's an extremely rapid vehicle, sprinting from rest to 100kmh in a tad more than six seconds.

There's more to performance than figures, however, and the "Gen III" also acquits itself well on the road. Bottom-end torque is adequate and nicely flexible and it packs a whopping punch of mid-range power. It also likes a good rev, and though not the smoothest, most refined or musical-sounding in these circumstances, it feels enthusiastic and nigh-on unburstable.

Not quite so pleasing is the six-speed manual gearbox, which does the job but feels disappointingly doughy, vague and slow, compared to the slick, quick shifts of its rivals.

Fuel economy, as you would expect of a big V8, is distinctly average given a heavy right foot but it can return some respectable figures on the cruise, mostly thanks to the high gearing that leaves the engine ticking over at a lazy 1500rpm or so at highway speeds. During our test, the Holden sipped 13.5 litres per 100km, putting it well behind the Nissan but ahead of the surprisingly thirsty RX-8.

The Nissan also gives a good account of itself in a straight line. Its V6 loses out to the Holden's outright capacity, but modern technology such as multiple valves and variable valve timing help it to pump out a healthy 206kW of power and 363Nm of torque. Better still, it only has 1453kg to tote around, so the 350Z has little trouble matching the CV8's six-second 0-100kmh capability.

Performance-wise, there's little to criticise. There's plenty of urge on tap at low engine speeds, and the V6 pumps out a smooth, linear supply of power that increases in direct proportion to revs. The six-speed gearbox is a beauty, with quick and precise shifts. If there is a complaint with the 350Z's powerplant, it is its lack of refinement. It feels slightly gravelly and boomy when driven hard into the upper reaches of its rev band and sounds disappointingly bland.

A lot of noise is being made about the Mazda's innovative doors but the attraction for many potential RX-8 buyers is the long-awaited return of the rotary engine, last seen in the RX-7 sports car of the mid-to-late 1990s. Called "Renesis", the new rotary is remarkably small and light, on a par with an all-aluminium in-line four, according to Mazda. Its compact nature allows it to be mounted low behind the front axle line, to the benefit of weight distribution.

Up against the Monaro, the RX-8 looks like it should be doing its fighting in the featherweight class. Maximum power is a comparatively lean 177kW, while torque tops out at just 211Nm, less than half that produced by the Holden.

On the road, though, the lightweight Mazda rises to the challenge. Low-range torque is slightly disappointing but the rotary is an absolute jewel once there's 3500rpm on board. It spins with alarming ease to 9200rpm and produces a wonderfully useable and linear supply of power. It might not feel quite as grunty as the Monaro or 350Z, but the all-round quality of this powerplant means few will feel shortchanged once the little rotary is spinning and pumping out its addictively unique tune. Helping to make the most of the available power on tap is a nicely slick and precise six-speed manual shift, although it can snag slightly during rushed two-three shifts.

Fuel economy still appears to be something of a rotary bugbear, though. Our RX-8 drank 14.1 litres of premium per 100km, which was bad enough to put it behind the significantly heavier and more powerful Monaro. Not quite enough, though, to put the kiss of death on the most exhilarating and enjoyable engine here.


On the road
Holden Monaro CV8 -- 3.5 stars
Mazda RX-8 Leather Pack -- 4.5 stars
Nissan 350Z Track -- 3.5 stars

Performance, space and comfort are all good and proper, but a real sports car is judged by its road manners. These cars all perform extremely well, but there are some big differences that are likely to sway preferences.

In isolation, the Monaro behaves very well indeed. The steering is well-weighted, precise and offers a decent amount of feel. The big Holden turns into corners keenly, maintaining a nicely balanced and predictable stance. Front-end push (or understeer) isn't an issue unless breakneck corner-entry speeds are in the equation, and it isn't thrown offline too much by lumps and bumps in the road.

But up against the smaller Zed and RX-8, the CV8 feels soft and ponderous, especially in tighter going, and you are constantly aware that there is a lot of weight changing direction during hard cornering. The benefit of the Monaro's extra weight and softer springs is a ride that easily soaks up big bumps, potholes and surface changes. It's the quietest, most relaxed and unfussed cruiser on the gnarled backroads all too common in this country.

The Zed goes a couple of steps too far in the opposite direction, but dedicated sports car fans will fall in love with its no-nonsense character. On smooth, twisty roads the Nissan is sensational, turning in like a slot car, gripping like a leech and responding to the driver's every command. Get it out on a lumpy piece of tarmac, though, and it's not quite as effective. The Zed pitches over big bumps and crashes loudly over potholes. While it isn't usually thrown off its intended cornering line, it is wearing for occupants on longer journeys.

Proficiently treading the tightrope between ride and handling is the Mazda. For outright handling, it gives little, if anything, away to the more focused Zed. The light weight and compact size mean it is extremely agile in tighter going, yet it's also remarkably stable and predictable in fast, sweeping bends. Only the steering, which is a tad too quick and responsive, and the rear suspension's tendency to buck over large bumps are anything less than impressive.

Sealing it for the Mazda is ride quality, which quietly soaks up most surface uglies without drawing them to the attention of the occupants, making it a good option for long journeys. It does this while maintaining a strict sense of handling discipline and control, which makes it the top choice for drivers who want the best of both worlds.


Accommodation and packaging
Holden Monaro CV8 -- 3.5 stars
Mazda RX-8 Leather Pack -- 4 stars
Nissan 350Z Track -- 3 stars

Obviously the Nissan can't compete with the roomier, more practical RX-8 and Monaro, but for a dedicated two-seater it does a reasonable job of cosseting its occupants. The leather seats are comfortable and supportive, the low-slung driving position is the sportiest of the group, there's ample space in all directions, even for bigger folk, and the instruments and controls are all easy to find and use. The heated seats also proved to be a boon during the cold, wet days on our test.

The Zed's boot capacity is respectable enough but the massive Z-badged suspension brace that divides the load space restricts its ability to carry large, bulky objects, while the cheap-looking, dimpled grey plastic that dominates the sharp, retro-styled cabin knocks the ambience down a peg. Forward vision for the driver is nothing special, either.

Operating on a different level is the Monaro, which belies its origins by sitting the driver up high on soft, thickly-padded seats with a comparatively big steering wheel and good vision in all directions. Safe but not very sporting, and it exaggerates the Holden's more prosaic demeanour. Same goes for the dashboard, which works well and looks OK but is a tad ho-hum in this sort of company.

As for passenger-carrying ability, the Monaro looks to have it all over the Mazda at first glance. It is much bigger, an advantage that appears to be carried over to the back seat, which boasts easily the best leg, hip, shoulder, knee room and vision here. But poor use of space means it's not as good as you'd think. Head room is tight for anyone near 183cm. The boot, however, is comfortably the biggest and best shaped.

You wouldn't think so looking at its low, lithe stance, but the RX-8 does a great job of carting four people around. Entry and exit to the back seat isn't entirely trouble-free, due to chunkiness of the front-seat frames and some awkward bulges in the roof rails, but the rear-opening doors (which Mazda call "freestyle doors") and missing B-pillars (they're integrated into the back doors' leading edges) make it easier than in the Monaro.

There's more to the Mazda's back seat, however. There's enough head room for taller-than-average passengers and the individual seats are well shaped, supportive and pretty much match the excellent front pews in all areas. Comparatively restricted shoulder, hip and foot room mean its very claustrophobic, though. Boot space, too, is average.

Yet the RX-8 doesn't blot its scorecard up front. The driving position is good, the chunky steering wheel is nice to hold and, despite the slightly snug feel, there's ample stretching space. Sealing the win for the Mazda is its classy, non-conformist design, good ergonomics, impressive build quality and unmatched sense of occasion.


Conclusion
Holden Monaro CV8 -- 4 stars
Mazda RX-8 Leather Pack -- 4.5 stars
Nissan 350Z Track -- 4 stars

Rating cars as closely matched as these is strenuous but as simple as deciding which best suits a buyer's needs and preferences.

Looking for a comfy highway cruiser that looks good, goes hard, handles pretty well and is capable of fitting passengers in the back, as well as couple of coolers in the boot? Then the Monaro is your only choice.

Want an exhilarating drive that stays true to the time-honoured sports car traditions of two seats, heaps of grunt and lots of driver involvement? Get along to a Nissan dealer.

Our choice is the RX-8 because it caters to both requirements without compromise. It performs strongly and handles better than the Monaro and is more practical and comfortable to live with than the Zed, thanks to its adventurous door system.

While it falls short of being the perfect package in some areas, such as its thirst for fuel, the all-purpose RX-8 is good enough to thoroughly deserve a place on the shortlist of all mid-range sports coupe buyers.

Prices and details correct at publication date.

 

where can i see pictures of the rx-8 with leather?

 

*Thumb through the multi-media section on this forum.

*Give the search button a try by inputting some keywords like "leather" or "interior".

Good luck

 

FYI,

14.1 liters/100Km = 17.3 mpg.

Not bad for track testing.

-Mr. Wigggles