Flawed Rotary Genius (Mazda RX8)

Member Name: curlingdoc

Product:	Mazda RX8
Date:	16/05/09 (27 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Great handling, four can share experience

Disadvantages: Economy, reliability

A few years ago I came into a bit of back pay and started looking around for a car to buy. I had no kids and was currnetly driving an MX-5. I had a short list
Alfa 147 GTA
Mazda RX-8

I tried hard to get a test drive in the Alfa but could not.
Mazda bent over backward and I had 3 test drives.

I went for the RX-8

I knew about the poor full economy, the high oil consumption and knew about the engine flooding problems. Or so I thought.

This is a review about my experience with this car both good and bad.

The car I bought was the 231ps. It had a 6 speed box, traction control, stability control aircon etc.

Driving: The best handling car I have ever driven. In the dry it is supreme with good grip on entry slight understeer, but you can steer with the accelerator if TC off. Even on the TC allows some movement. However, in the wet it becomes tail happy and I would only drive with TC on. Forget going out in the snow, even half an inch.

Accommodation: Soon after I got the car my wife fell pregnant. We debated changing the car, but once I knew the Mutsy pram base fitted in the boot it stayed. Because the rear doors open back it was easier to get a baby in and out compared to a 4x4

Engine: Economy worse than expected more like 15-18mpg. Several recalls for software upgrades. After one time they could't start the car and an NEW engine was fitted. This was after only 24000 miles. Oil consumption not a problem until oil filler pipe split and It dumped contents on M8.

After this last event I had to part company with the car as I felt I could not rely on it.
It was a sad day though as it is a great car to drive

Sadly

Summary: Great sports car with a flawed heart

Processing/Quality:
Reliability:
Driving comfort: