2008 Mazda RX-8
This evolutionary development of the iconic Mazda RX-8 continues Mazda's 40-year love affair with the Wankel rotary engine. Headline changes to the drivetrain, chassis and styling heighten the no-compromise appeal of the Mazda RX-8 as Australia's only four-door, four-seat sports coupe under $60,000. Mazda engineers have refined the RENESIS engine, whose naturally aspirated, free-revving operation up to 9,000rpm realises exhilarating performance. The engine sits low and well back in the engine bay. The new RX-8 maintains the original ideal 50:50 weight distribution, placing weight evenly over all four wheels and ensuring exceptional stability. The chassis itself has been strengthened to bolster rigidity and give the engine and suspension a tauter platform. This, and a modified suspension enables sharp and linear vehicle response to steering inputs, and delivers the handling of a genuine sports car as well as the high-grade ride.
2008 RX-8 Pricing:
RX-8 - $49,720; RX-8 Luxury - $55,520; RX-8 GT - $57,625
Optiion: 6-spd Activematic (Luxury only) - $ 1,645.
In brief RX-8
Mechanical
-Major engine modifications improve low-end pulling power and smoothness
-RENESIS 1.308-litre rotary engine produces:
-170 kW @ 8,200 rpm with 6-speed manual (unchanged)
-158 kW @ 7,500 rpm with 6-speed Activematic (up 17 kW)
-211 Nm @ 5,500 rpm on both versions (4AT was 220Nm @ 5,000rpm)
-Six-speed manual adopted from MX-5 is standard on all models
-Unique 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 ratios better suit engine characteristics
-Final drive shorter, now 4.777:1 (up from 4.444:1)
-New 6-speed Aisin Activematic is optional on Luxury
-Suspension revisions sharpen RX-8's reflexes and deliver more compliant ride
-External dimensions, interior space and comfort essentially unchanged
-More aerodynamic: Coefficient of drag now 0.30 (was 0.31)
-Fuel tank increases 4 litres to 65 litres for greater touring range
The Mazda RX-8, first launched in Australia in July 2003, introduced an entirely new concept: a 4-door 4-seat sports car taking full advantage of the rotary engine's light weight, compact size and high power output. With the world's only compact automotive rotary engine as its power plant, RX-8 blends the aggressive styling and high level of driving pleasure expected of a genuine sports car with a comfortable and practical cabin for four occupants. More than just a high performance rotary sports car, RX-8 creates new values as a 4-door 4-seater, offering owners a driving experience that transcends the conventional notions of a sports car. The naturally aspirated RENESIS rotary engine revs effortlessly up to 9,000 rpm, helping the RX-8 establish oneness between car and driver that is a key part of Mazda's DNA. In short, new RX-8 delivers sheer driving pleasure thanks to its linear response to the driver's intentions.
The engine itself has undergone such a wide range of modifications it almost amounts to a new unit. For example, the gas seal lubrication system that is essential to the rotary engine has been changed from a mechanical type to a higher precision electro magnetic type, and engine oil lubrication performance is further improved. Technologies such as this mark the next phase of Mazda's rotary development, proof of the steady evolution of RENESIS. In the area of basic performance, local reinforcements to the body and modified suspension geometry further improve handling. As for styling, the exterior receives a fresher, more refined look thanks to a redesign of the headlamps, LED rear combination lamps, front and rear bumpers and front quarter panels. The interior features greater inbuilt quality in the details and includes convenient new equipment, further elevating the RX-8's ease of use and high quality feel.
