2005 Mazda RX-8 Automatic 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 4A)
Bought the car because of looks and the zoom, zoom, zoom when I accelerated. Then the dealership made a recommended adjustment on one of my visits (due to a grinding/rattle noise on sudden accelerations from day one) and the responsiveness was never the same. Right after the 5 yr warranty ran out, the dealership in St. Pete announced that the vibration I was feeling was the engine mounts being kaput. This was a known problem they got a bulletin on. Never told me. They quoted $700 to fix. We bought Mazda mounts from a dealership on line and Midas installed-total cost $300. Soon thereafter the airbag light went on. It flashes or stays on permanently. So got to take it in again.
Exterior appearance except the paint (white) is weak/thin and pits easily. Like having a back seat.
Better quality paint. Extend warranty on motor mounts since Mazda knows they are defective. Include a hook in the back over the door to hang jacket/dry cleaning. Car should not shift automatically into 4th gear when only going 35-40 MPH especially when dealer says car must be driven at high RPM.