2004 Mazda RX-8: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Mazda revives the rotary engine in a new sports car it promotes as the spiritual successor to the famous RX-7. Last offered in 1995, the RX-7 was a 2-seat, 2-dr car. The RX-8 is a 4-passenger 4 dr. Its back doors are two rear-hinged panels that do not open or close independently of the front doors. Conventional engines use pistons that move up and down in cylinders. A rotary has triangular rotors that spin inside oval housings. The RX-8's displaces 1.3 liters and has 197 hp when teamed with a 4-speed automatic transmission, 238 hp when linked with a 6-speed manual. The automatic includes a manual-shift mode using steering-wheel paddles or floor lever. Manual-transmission RX-8s have 18-inch wheels, stiffer sport suspension, and a limited-slip differential. A Sport Package option for automatics replaces their 16-inch wheels with 18s and adds the stiffer suspension. ABS, front side airbags, and head-protecting curtain side airbags are standard. Options include leather upholstery, antiskid/traction control, and navigation system.