Introduction
The Mazda RX-8 is a well-known sports car. Its unique rotary engine and sleek form have made it a favorite among drivers. If you’re thinking about buying a Mazda RX-8, it’s important to choose the right model year for your needs and tastes. In this detailed guide, we’ll talk about the best and worst years of the Mazda RX-8, as well as other important things to think about before making a choice. With detailed analysis and insights, you’ll get a full picture of the strengths, weaknesses, and general performance of each model year.
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Mazda RX-8 Are:
The best Mazda RX-8 model years are 2011, 2010, 2009, and 2008. The worst model years of the RX-8 are 2007, 2006, 2005, and 2004. This is based on NHTSA statistics, auto industry reviews, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
Brief History of Mazda RX-8
Before we talk about the best and worst years, let’s look at the Mazda RX-8’s past. The RX-8 came out in 2003 as a replacement for the famous RX-7, and it was made until 2012. It is different from other sports cars because it has a rotary engine and four doors. This makes it both fast and useful. During its time on the market, the RX-8 went through a number of updates and improvements that were meant to improve its driving dynamics and general experience.
Importance of Choosing the Right Mazda RX-8 Year
To have a good time owning a Mazda RX-8, you need to choose the right model year. There may be changes, improvements, or problems with each model year that have a big effect on performance, reliability, and general satisfaction. By knowing what makes each year good and what makes it bad, you can make an informed decision that fits your preferences and goals.
Purpose of this Article
This article will tell you everything you need to know about the best and worst years of the Mazda RX-8. We will look at a number of things, such as consumer ratings, complaints, typical problems, and how well the car works. By looking at these things, you’ll have a good idea of which years to focus on and which to avoid. This will help you make an informed decision when buying a Mazda RX-8.
What Are The Best Years For The Mazda RX-8?
1. 2011 Mazda RX-8
For a number of reasons, the 2011 Mazda RX-8 stands out as one of the best years. It got a lot of improvements, such as more horsepower and better gas mileage. The 2011 model also has better handling and a new look, making it a great choice for drivers who want a car that looks good and drives well.
2011 Mazda RX-8
2. 2010 Mazda RX-8
The 2010 Mazda RX-8 is another notable year that gives a good balance of performance and comfort. It came with a new suspension system, which made the car easier to handle and more fun to drive. The 2010 model also had a nicer interior, which added to its total appeal.
3. 2009 Mazda RX-8
The 2009 model is a good choice if you want a stable and well-equipped Mazda RX-8. This year, both torque and reliability scores were very good. Also, the stock equipment on the 2009 RX-8 was upgraded, which made it better to drive and to own.
4. 2008 Mazda RX-8
The 2008 Mazda RX-8 got some big changes that made its speed and look even better. It had a redesigned front fascia that made it more efficient and gave it a more aggressive look. The 2008 model also had a better brake system, which made it easier to stop and safer overall.
5. 2006 and 2007 Mazda RX-8
Even though the 2006 and 2007 Mazda RX-8 models have some engine problems, they are still worth talking about because of how well they perform and handle. The chassis and suspension in these years are strong, giving fans a thrilling driving experience.
6. 2005 Mazda RX-8
Even though 2005 is mentioned as one of the worst years for the Mazda RX-8, it still has its good features. It looks good, handles like a sports car, and has a comfortable cabin. But people who want to buy this year should be careful and look carefully at the vehicle’s past and maintenance records.
2005 Mazda RX-8
Consumer Scores For Best Mazda RX-8 Years
Consumer ratings tell us a lot about how reliable and happy people were with a certain model year of Mazda RX-8. Consumers say that the best years for the Mazda RX-8 were 2010, 2009, and 2008. This is based on a lot of surveys and comments. These years have consistently gotten good reviews and scores, which shows that customers are happier and the company is more reliable overall.
Consumer Scores For Best Mazda RX-8 Years
Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating |
Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating |
2011 Mazda RX-8 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 4.2 / 5.0 |
2010 Mazda RX-8 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 4.2 / 5.0 |
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 4.2 / 5.0 |
2008 Mazda RX-8 | 4.6 / 5.0 | 4.2 / 5.0 |
What Are The Worst Years For The Mazda RX-8?
1. 2004 Mazda RX-8
Due to early problems with stability, the 2004 Mazda RX-8 is often said to be one of the worst years. Some owners said that the engine flooded and that it used too much oil. These problems not only hurt the car’s performance but they also gave this model year a bad name.
2004 Mazda RX-8
2. 2005 Mazda RX-8
Just like the 2004 model, the 2005 Mazda RX-8 had a lot of engine problems and bad scores for dependability. Owners said that the car lost power, the engine stalled, and the motor broke down. People who want to buy a car this year should be careful and look carefully at its past and maintenance records.
3. 2006 and 2007 Mazda RX-8
The 2006 and 2007 Mazda RX-8 cars had the same problems as the years before, like the engine flooding and using too much oil. These problems kept happening with these models for years, which made them less appealing to people looking to buy.
4. 2008 Mazda RX-8
Even though 2008 was mentioned as one of the best years for the Mazda RX-8, it is important to note that some owners had problems with the rotary engine. Some of these problems were that the engine flooded and lost power. Even though most people liked the 2008 model, it’s important to check out each car and look at its repair history before making a purchase.
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
Owners of Mazda RX-8s from different model years have reported problems, but the 2004 and 2005 models have gotten the most complaints because of engine problems. Some of these problems are a lack of power, a stalled engine, and a broken engine. It’s important to remember that not all cars from these years will have these problems because maintenance, driving habits, and the past of each car can be different.
Years With The Most Complaints
Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) |
Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) |
Recalls (NHTSA.gov) |
2011 Mazda RX-8 | 0 | 3 | 3 |
2010 Mazda RX-8 | 0 | 4 | 5 |
2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2 | 8 | 4 |
2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2 | 22 | 5 |
2007 Mazda RX-8 | 6 | 52 | 5 |
2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1 | 70 | 5 |
2005 Mazda RX-8 | 6 | 211 | 6 |
2004 Mazda RX-8 | 12 | 606 | 10 |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mazda RX-8 Year
Several things should be thought about when picking a Mazda RX-8 year so that you can make a good choice. Among these things are:
Budget
Figure out how much you can spend and see which model years are in your price range.
Features You Want
Think about the specific features and choices you want in a Mazda RX-8, such as interior comforts, audio systems, navigation, and safety features. Different years may have different amounts of technology and tools.
How you plan to use the Mazda RX-8
Think about how you want to use it. Are you looking for a car to drive every day, a car to drive on the weekends, or a car for the track? Based on speed, handling, and comfort, the way you plan to use the car can affect which model years you like best.
Reputation for reliability and performance
Look up the ratings for dependability, customer reviews, and expert reviews of each model year. Look for regular problems, recalls, and any changes or improvements that Mazda has made to fix problems in the past.
Costs of maintenance and repairs
Think about the costs of maintenance and repairs over the long run. Older types may need to be serviced more often or cost more to fix.
Records of the car’s history and maintenance
Get a full report on the vehicle’s past and look at its maintenance records before you decide to buy it. This information will show who owned the car before, how it was taken care of, and if there were any problems or fixes.
By carefully thinking about these things, you can narrow down your choices and make a choice that fits your needs and desires.
2008 Mazda RX-8
What Problems Does Mazda RX-8 Have?
Like any other car, Mazda RX-8s have a few problems that drivers should be aware of. Some of the most important problems are:
1. Engine Flooding
The RX-8’s unique rotary engine can flood if it isn’t started or moved correctly. This can make it hard to start the car or cause the engine to stop running.
2. Excessive Oil Consumption
RX-8s use more oil than standard piston engines. To keep the engine from getting damaged, it’s important to keep an eye on the oil amount and change it when the manual says to.
3. Fuel Efficiency
Because of how the rotary engine is made, RX-8s tend to use more gas than other sports cars in the same class. When figuring out the total cost of owning a car, it’s important to think about how much you spend on gas and how often you drive.
4. Carbon Buildup
Carbon particles can build up in a rotary engine over time, which hurts its performance and fuel economy. Regular care, like cleaning the carbon, can help with this problem.
5. Suspension Bushings
Some RX-8 owners have said that their suspension bushings wear out faster than they should. This can make noise, cause shocks, and make the car harder to handle. To keep things working at their best, they should be checked regularly and, if necessary, replaced.
It’s important to remember that proper care and maintenance, like regular oil changes, warm-up and cool-down processes, and following the manufacturer’s suggestions, can greatly reduce these problems and make sure your Mazda RX-8 lasts as long as possible.
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Mazda RX-8?
If you’re looking for alternatives to the Mazda RX-8, there are a number of cars that perform and drive in a similar way. These other options are:
Subaru BRZ
The Subaru BRZ is a sports car with rear-wheel drive that is known for its quick driving and low price. It is a popular choice among driving fans because it is easy to drive and has a lightweight chassis.
Nissan 370Z
The Nissan 370Z is a two-seat sports car known for its athletic speed and powerful V6 engine. It’s fun to drive because of the way it looks and how it responds to your inputs.
Hyundai Genesis Coupe
The Hyundai Genesis Coupe looks great, has choices for powerful engines, and is affordable. It’s a good option for the Mazda RX-8 because it has a comfortable ride, a lot of features, and decent performance.
Ford Mustang
The Ford Mustang is a famous American sports car with a classic look and a powerful engine. The Mustang has a variety of engines and trim levels, so it has something for every racing fan.
Chevrolet Camaro
Chevrolet Camaro is another famous muscle car that looks great and drives well. It comes with a choice of engines and has a sporty look, which makes it a popular choice among car fans.
Toyota 86/Subaru BRZ twins
The Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are both lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports cars known for their precise driving and driver-focused experience. These cars are simple and fun to drive, and they don’t cost a lot of money.
Each of these options has its own strengths and features, so taking them for a test drive and comparing them will help you find the best one for your driving style and way of life.
Best Alternatives To The Mazda RX-8
Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
Chevrolet Camaro | 8.7 | $9,135 – $12,584 | City: 17 – 18 /Highway: 28 – 29 |
Nissan 370Z | 8.7 | $11,309 – $18,768 | City: 18 – 19 /Highway: 25 – 26 |
Dodge Challenger | 8.6 | $11,003 – $14,854 | City: 15 – 17 /Highway: 24 – 25 |
Ford Mustang | 8.5 | $9,405 – $10,190 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
Mazda RX-8 | 7.8 | $8,636 – $15,681 | City: 16 /Highway: 22 |
Mitsubishi Eclipse | 7.8 | $6,349 – $8,553 | City: 17 – 20 /Highway: 25 – 28 |
Mazda MX-5 Miata | 7.6 | $9,020 – $14,418 | City: NA /Highway: NA |
Hyundai Genesis Coupe | 6.9 | $7,637 – $9,830 | City: 17 – 21 /Highway: 26 – 30 |
Conclusion
To have a fun and trouble-free time owning a Mazda RX-8, it’s important to pick the right model year. By looking at the best and worst years, as well as consumer scores, complaints, regular problems, and performance factors, you’ll be able to buy a Mazda RX-8 with confidence. Remember to do a lot of studies and test-drive any possible purchase and to think about how much it will cost to maintain and fix. With its unique rotary engine and sports car features, the Mazda RX-8 is a thrilling car to drive for those who enjoy its unique features.