Mazda RX8 - which model?
Discussion
Mazda just cut around €5000 from rx8 prices here, which brings it nicely within my budget for my next car later this year 
But being realistic I could probably only manage the "base" model. We have 3 versions - base, sport and hi-power. If I recall the hi-power has a 6 speed box and of course a more powerful engine but I would be interested to hear from anyone who has driven each version. What is the difference in the real world? Would I forever regret going for bottom of the range? Are the better models really worth the extra cash?
It'll be replacing a Civic Type R. I've done the 4wd turbo thing and now the FWD vtec thing so it's time for something a little different. Would like something non-turbo, free revving and ideally RWD. The rx8 seems to fit the bill nicely...
But being realistic I could probably only manage the "base" model. We have 3 versions - base, sport and hi-power. If I recall the hi-power has a 6 speed box and of course a more powerful engine but I would be interested to hear from anyone who has driven each version. What is the difference in the real world? Would I forever regret going for bottom of the range? Are the better models really worth the extra cash? It'll be replacing a Civic Type R. I've done the 4wd turbo thing and now the FWD vtec thing so it's time for something a little different. Would like something non-turbo, free revving and ideally RWD. The rx8 seems to fit the bill nicely...
Check out www.mazdarotaryclub.com there is a section on there about RX8 test drives and also owners impressions of them.
I'm a memberof the UK owners club, but in the Uk we only have 2 models, hi and lo power.
The low power is 190bhp and a 7.5k rpm limit, the hipower is 230bhp and 9.5k rpm limit. lo power delivers slightly more torque at slightly lower revs.
The 5 speed is geared a longer than the 6 speed so in any condition the 6 speed/hipower is quicker, but below 7.5k rpm limit they both drive the same.
Euro gets 16" wheels on the base model with smaller brakes, Uk lopower gets 18" and big brakes on all.
So I cant comment on the euro cheapie but the ride and stopping power, handling and dynamics of both are identical and excelent in the UK. The hi power is just a little quicker and more flexible (can cruise down the motorway in 3rd at 80/8krpm with plenty left...)
Be - aware that you will use on average 1 litre of oil every 2000km or so (depending on driving and car) and average 20-23mpg probably, dunno what that is in l/100km but its not good.
Oh and the Jap factory burnt down just before xmas causing a 3month delay so supply is tight atm.
The low power is 190bhp and a 7.5k rpm limit, the hipower is 230bhp and 9.5k rpm limit. lo power delivers slightly more torque at slightly lower revs.
The 5 speed is geared a longer than the 6 speed so in any condition the 6 speed/hipower is quicker, but below 7.5k rpm limit they both drive the same.
Euro gets 16" wheels on the base model with smaller brakes, Uk lopower gets 18" and big brakes on all.
So I cant comment on the euro cheapie but the ride and stopping power, handling and dynamics of both are identical and excelent in the UK. The hi power is just a little quicker and more flexible (can cruise down the motorway in 3rd at 80/8krpm with plenty left...)
Be - aware that you will use on average 1 litre of oil every 2000km or so (depending on driving and car) and average 20-23mpg probably, dunno what that is in l/100km but its not good.
Oh and the Jap factory burnt down just before xmas causing a 3month delay so supply is tight atm.
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