Mazda RX-8

The RX-8 is Mazda’s rotary-powered four-seat sports car with small rear-hinged doors for rear-seat access. The RX-8 is powered by the world’s only mass-produced rotary engine following in line after three generations of RX-7s and the spiritual successor to the 1967 Cosmos 100S, the first twin-rotor production car. Mazda has sold over two million rotary engines and won the 1991 24 Hours of Le Mans with a rotary-powered prototype to become the only Japanese brand to ever win that famous endurance race. The RX-8 debuted as a concept car at the 2002 North American International Auto Show and went on sale in the spring of 2003 as a 2004 model.

Technical Specs

Standard Engine 1.3L R2

Standard Transmission 6 Speed Manual

Cylinders Not Listed

Horsepower @ RPM 232@8500

Torque @ RPM 159@5500 (foot-lbs)

The 2009 Mazda RX-8 receives updated exterior and interior styling, improved handling, better acceleration and new technology features. Exterior changes include new front and rear bumpers, redesigned headlights, new 18-inch alloy wheel design, LED taillights, larger exhaust tips and a rear lip spoiler when equipped with a manual transmission. The new RX-8 R3 trim level includes 19-inch forged alloy wheels, Bilstein shocks, foam-injected front suspension cross member, DSC with Traction Control, fog lights, rear wing spoiler, distinctive front bumper design, side sills, Xenon headlights front Recaro seats with leather side bolsters, Bose audio system and advanced keyless entry system. All trim levels include improved body rigidity, revised rear suspension geometry, new seat design and new steering wheel. Grand Touring adds automatic air conditioning, Bluetooth hands-free phone system and driver’s seat memory.