RX8 190 v 231

[custardtart]

Has anyone had experience of both and is the power difference really noticeable in general driving?

I've had a look at the specs and it seems that the gearing on the 231 will give a faster feel and they've upped the rev limit from 7500rpm to 9000rpm but peak power is at 8500rpm hence the concern as to how noticeable this will be 99% of the time.

The local dealer only has a 231 for a test drive at the mo.

[gofasterrosssco]

I may be wrong, but is the 190PS car not auto gearbox only and the 231PS is 6-speed manual...... Not driven one, but there is apparently quite a differnece in performance between the two, as in the 190 is pretty tepid, where as the 231 has some legs at least.... Just what I heard.

[custardtart]

190 is a 5 speed manual and 231 is 6 speed manual

[Monumental]

Having driven both I'd say go for the 231 version. It's not vastly quicker, but the 6 speed box makes more sense with that engine. And you get nicer lights. Anyway, the price difference is so small that you'd be kicking yourself if you ended up with the 190.

[bigwithey]

I can't say I've noticed a real difference, 230's have got about 5mph per gear in straight drag over a 190 BUT under " normal" driving there 'aint a lot in it. I've followed / been followed by 230's and there's no big difference that I or 230 drivers notice?
For your extra 2k you get xenon's, 6spd and ally pedals, I personally prefer the gearing of the 5spd you're stirring it less and it's an easier drive in traffic.
Check out the forum at www.rx8ownersclub.co.uk there's loads of info on the RX.

Jon

[thanuk]

custardtart said:

190 is a 5 speed manual and 231 is 6 speed manual

Official UK cars are but TW White also sell a Jap import 190 with a 4 speed auto