Used 2004 Mazda RX-8 Consumer Reviews
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I guess I got the bad one in the batch
Adam, 07/27/2006
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I was looking for something fun to drive. I came across it when I first laid eyes on the RX-8. I loved it my first year or so driving it when all the problems began. I always serviced my vehicle when the book states to do so. I always added oil when I was told to. But to no avail... my car just didn't work correctly. At about 14,000 miles my check engine light came on and until about two months ago, now 36,000 miles, did it go off. I went to the dealerships and they told me that oxygen sensors needed to be replaced. Then I went back and they told me that the gas line had something wrong with it. Then I went back and they told me that it was an oil issue. Finally they told me I needed a new engine.
Zoom Zoom with lots of room
GaylordMays, 08/27/2006
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The RX-8 won't go 0-60 with blinding speed. It's only 1.8 liters, but if you want to rip through a winding roads like sports cars are meant to do, you can't beat it for the price. Its worst feature is gas mileage. I love the interior layout. All the gauges are clearly visible and the huge 10K tach with the digital speedometer is way cool even though I don't look at it much; I shift by sound. If I get to wound up in the post 8000 rpm whine the audible alarm that goes off as I pass through 95K mark reminds me to shift. I haven't experienced any maintenance problems (mine's a 6 speed manual). My biggest thrill comes from the G-force engaging the limited slip differential in the curves.
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My fourth RX
JamesBaud, 08/27/2006
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the fourth rotary I've owned (82, 85, 91 RX-7s) and I'm pleased. The car looks awesome, has exciting acceleration, sounds cool, is surprisingly roomy, has a neat dash, and handles very well. Like my other RX-7's, cons include an interior that doesn't wear well (easy to scuff up--especially the leather, center console/cover tends to come loose, leather shift cover likely to crack), and poor gas mileage (no surprise). Also, the A/C in the RX-8 seems underpowered. A big pro is that these vehicles typically require little maintenance (no timing belt replacements, valve adjustments, etc.) so long as you keep the fluid levels topped off.
Looks great and works bad
bob forman, 10/04/2006
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This call has been towed to the dealer at least 10 times. There is a definite flaw in the design of the engine.It's failure to start especially in cold weather is frustrating. Although the handling is superior to any car I have owned, for a sports car this car is way to sluggish. I do have an automatic transmission. I am sorry I did not get the Nissan Z instead of this rattle machine
Best Mazda I ever owned
RedRX8, 11/20/2006
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've owned several Mazdas in my day. The RX3, RX4 pickup, RX7 carb., RX7 GSL SE fuel injected, and now the 2004 RX8 6 MT. This is by far the best car of them all. I was the first one to buy an RX8 at my new dealership. So I was expecting Mazda would have some problems with such an advanced engineered sports car. The only constant updates were on the PCM programs to improve fuel mixtures, oil metering, & cold starting problems. They finally got it all working perfectly. This is the must fun you can have driving without getting a ticket.
Two years and going
dryer, 11/22/2006
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Fun to drive, takes corners like it is glued to the road. Have to rev to get torque. Do not be afraid to wind it out. More power at higher speeds. Rides better than a Z.
Read Before buying
Bama, 01/02/2007
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My first Mazda. I have had 3 recalls in less than 3 years. one was to replace the motor!. Less than a month after the motor was replaced . The car started running hot. Through no fault of the dealer's mechanic and everything hooked back up right. The radiator fan burned out. Whats next? You can buy this car if you like. But i will be putting mine in to some Toyota dealer's used parking lot. 200,000+ sold with the same motor and fan. Good luck
A blast to drive and looks good
JZ, 01/06/2007
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Overall the car is a great experience. I replaced the expensive run flat tires when I took a nail in the sidewall and bought a spare on eBay. Driving it to work can be frustrating because you have to hold it back in heavy traffic. It's fabulous to drive on trips. My first rotary. I like the sounds but miss the rumble of a big V-8. My mileage started out low but has improved to a steady 20 mpg. If you drive slow on the freeway, you might get 22 (downhill).
my car
diana romines, 01/10/2007
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my RX8 in February of 2004; since then I have a lot of fun driving it when it's on the road. My car spends what I consider an excessive amount of time at the dealership getting worked on. I have had to have a new transmission put in it at about 20,000 miles and it is currently having the 2nd replacement engine put in. Since it crossed over approximately 15,000 miles it has had one thing after another go out, not to mention several recalls and the aggravation of having to take it to the dealer every 5,000 miles in between all the unscheduled service trips. I love my car, I have the only yellow RX8 around here and it really disappoints me that it doesn't hold up to what I expected from a Mazda.
Joy to Own
Kap, 01/19/2007
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a wonderful GT style car that is comfortable and entertaining.
GRX8T car
Voter, 04/13/2007
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Best handling car I've ever driven. Gets lost of looks on the road. Very comfortable to drive for a sports car.
Excellent and Poor
Leo, 05/05/2007
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Car was an excellent experience until recently, it started to stall in hot weather. After looking in the internet to see if this was unusual I was surprised to see that persons in hot climates, with or without humidity have had major issues with the engine. Mazda seems to have done all it could to fix the issue without having to replace the engine but in some cases the harm done to the engine has been too great and an engine replacement is needed - if you have this issue get to the dealer before the warranty expires or you will be stuck. I now have a new engine at 56K miles and all is well. Aside from the engine issue, the car had been the best I have owned.
It's a Kick
RX8tive, 04/04/2007
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Mazda RX-8 is nothing but fun, capable of putting a smile on your face in 5.7 seconds. Excellent balance, redlines at 9K, great wrap around bucket seats. Goes through tires quickly, too small for a married man with kids (me), trunk space with spare tire installed is a joke... shouldn't be called a trunk.
Fun As Hell To Drive
Kevin, 07/30/2007
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Wow!! I've had my RX-8 for about 3 months. Its the GT Pkg M/T. The only one I've seen so far with the Blk/Red leather combo. When I first bought the car I took it down a very twisty 2 lane country highway and it cornered very precise. I was taking practically 90 degree turns at 65 mph with ease and control. The handling is perfect! The 50/50 weight distribution is wonderful. Love the sound of the rotary engine, my first. The body lines are beautiful and very aggressive looking. Onlookers are always commenting on how it looks. The interior is comfy. No rattles. Didn't buy the car based on cup holders. This is a true driver's car. It begs to be driven like it was built to do. The power is awesome.
Zoom_Zoom_Zoom!
HeatherStevens, 09/12/2007
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just got this car a month or two ago, I love everything about it but the gas. The gas is just horrible. I feel like everyday I am putting gas in it. I love how it drives, it's real comfortable, everything is in reach. This is my first car and I don't think I would ever trade it in. (Well only if they would get better MPG.)
"Lemon" Yellow
toconner, 06/11/2007
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my car in Mar 04. After 6 months new brakes and rotors. Nov 06 - took car in for oil change, was told need new motor in recall. New motor then required a new trans. Now in again because car is just not running right - doesn't want to start and backfires. I just wish Mazda would fix my little yellow car and bring it back to the car I use to love to drive and brag about.
Looks Great!
keithr, 07/03/2007
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The RX-8 is a great looking car. I don't know that I've ever had a car that got as many compliments! The ride is very tight and you feel the road a bit too much but the overall driving experience makes up for it. The only disappointment has been the fuel economy - 17 city & 21 hwy. For premium gas it should be considerably higher but I guess that's the price for performance.
Bad rap
cornja, 09/17/2007
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
All I've owned are fast cars, of every type. If I could change one thing about the car, I would give it more power, in fact I'm considering turbo charging it. Handling is perfect and tight, the car is a blast to drive, and it runs smooth as butter. I have had absolutely no reliability issues with my car, and I hit the 9000 RPM mark on every trip I take, every day. I highly recommend this car to all those who enjoy driving.
Blow's you away!
Mike05, 04/26/2003
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The unique design of the Mazda RX-8 is incredible. Mazda should pat themselves on their backs on their 4 door coupe. The Mazda RX-8 is top notch in performance and style. This car beat out the Nissan 350z and the Ford Mustang with ease.
Lots of ZOOOM for the Buck
Rob@ Bement Illinois, 07/27/2007
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This zippy 2004 manual RX-8 is the 4th sports car I've owned (79, 84 trans ams, 94 mustang) and I have no regrets thus far. I didn't plan on buying it but test drove it just wasting time while my trade in was getting appraised. I'm 5-8 & 200 lbs and found the seats to be a little small for us older Americans. If you ride the brakes at first for 3 seconds after 2 min. warming up, the brake squeak will stop. I get 20 mpg and 18.5 if I have my foot in it more than I should. The smooth ride from this lgt wgt car was really impressive. Controls are many and driver friendly. Wind noise with windows open sunroof closed is above average. Driver visibility req. mirrors to be adjusted correctly.
The only car like it
NOPI4U, 09/11/2007
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased my 2004 RX-8 in February of 2007. The car had 25,000 miles on it and a decent price. I was already in love with the rotary engine before I invested in the car so, I already had a good idea what I was up against. Without a shadow of a doubt, the car performs well. I've managed to squeeze out many 5 second 0-60 times and surpass all of my expectations with my MT. I have only had one quality issue with my RX-8. The clutch had scattered a few springs and thus, was not disengaging properly. This caused wear in the synchros that eventually led to the end of the transmission. After a new clutch and a new tranny (compliments of Mazda), the car is absolutely perfect.
rx8 rules
friest, 04/28/2003
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
the rx8 is a totaly asome car
How fun it is!!!
The Juan, 10/30/2007
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
All I had to do is look at this car and I was in love. Then I drove the car and realized I was in heaven taking corners with ease.
One Of The Best Cars Around
Robert Stephens, 05/12/2003
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is one of the greatest cars I have ever seen. If I were any of you, I would go out tomorrow and buy this brand new Mazda RX-8. It runs like dream.
cool
daveyd26, 05/13/2003
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
phat that is what i think of this cool car and that is all that i can think of right now.
the bomb
jtalldat200, 05/18/2003
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
everything about this car is awsome, expecially the free style doors on the car. there is a lot of room in the car, it has more room then some sedans. buy this car.
The only sports car you need
Bob Williams, 05/09/2003
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the only sports car you need,Your kids will be popular at school just because of how cool this car is. the interior design is awsome. it has so much room for a sports car. It has more room then a altima or maxima in the back. the whole car is balanced so theres no way it can flip over.It has a great engine and great wheels, you feel like your in a rocket when you just hit 50. wow. The doors are the most coolest thing on this car. it looks so cool. scince they have these doors its so easy to get into and out of the car.
No regrets; no problems; all fun!
Rod L. Richardson, 03/08/2008
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Aside from premium gas and modest mpg this has been a great car. I customized to a full Mazda Speed Version + others suspension/computer mods. Comared to a std/ RX8 a real head turner. No mechanical problems. Big Racing Heart tires/very low profile makes the agility of this vehicle striking. Floats well over 120mph; probably due 150+; Canadian computer adds about 50 horsepower. Red. Just went to the 2008 Auto show in KC, Mo. Nothing except Vettes/Viper to compare. Not for everyone. Takes an astute enthusiast to see the subtle wonders of this speedster. If you can afford to do the Mazda Speed Package it makes it a totally different car + racing wheels, suspension etc. Add $15,000. Std 6 speed.
Awesome
Saverio, 06/08/2003
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Exhilerating performance, outstanding, smart, awesome, fast, efficient, hot, affordable, nice. a car like no other
The only sports car you need
bob williams, 05/09/2003
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the only sports car you need,Your kids will be popular at school just because of how cool this car is. the interior design is awsome. it has so much room for a sports car. It has more room then a altima or maxima in the back. the whole car is balanced so theres no way it can flip over.It has a great engine and great wheels, you feel like your in a rocket when you just hit 50. wow. The doors are the most coolest thing on this car. it looks so cool. scince they have these doors its so easy to get into and out of the car.
RX8
nuss, 07/09/2003
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
All Around great car
In the shop more than on the road
Paul, 05/06/2008
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my RX-8 in 2004 and I had more problems with this car than any other I have ever owned. Besides the fact that it needs to be serviced every 3,500 miles, it was in the shop a lot more than that. From fuel line problems to the electrical system (reflashing the engine computer), you name it, this car cost me time and money than you wouldn't normally expect from a Japanese car. Fun car to drive, a little underpowered, but gas mileage is horrendous and the service record was no better. I would never buy another Mazda again.
Very fun and never has a problem!
Louis, 05/23/2008
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Love the car, very fun to drive. Little kids on the side of the street get excited and people turn heads. Has a unique and fun sound, supreme handling, and I love sitting low in a car. It could use more initial torque, and wish they would finally come out with the Mazda Speed version (not likely). Of course as in with all Wankel Rotary engines.......fuel consumption. :(
The BatMobile!!
Dovid, 07/20/2003
2004 Mazda RX-8 Automatic 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 4A)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car is something else. From the day I got the car I have done nothing else but drive it and admire its sleek body and beautifuly designed interior. The car is and artistic delight and is a pleasure to drive. I recommend this car for people looking for a reliable ride, a gorgeous design, all at a reasonable price.
this car sucks
rollo, 02/27/2004
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
embarrasingly slow gas mileage stinks interior is noisy and poorly assembled needs a spare tire, maybe the worst car i have ever driven in the snow and i am on my sixth rear drive manual sports car
Hot Ride
MartyH., 12/07/2008
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I got this car as used one w/ 33k on his back. But it was worth it. First impression wasn't that good about accelerations, but as I learned about rotary engine, that was pretty standard for auto/manual transmission. Which I choose for comfort and pedal shifters kinda looking like in most expensive sports cars. Fact is that fuel economy is that what you expect from sports car... you have to take the power somewhere if you have 1300cc in ultra light sexy looking racer with handling of formule1. I am looking forward for new RX9 in future, for now I may just get newer version w/ six speed transmission.
Great Car for Most Purposes
Stonejaw, 08/06/2009
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
The RX8 is very fun to drive! Great road feel and superb handling. If you want to drive this car where there is snow - get dedicated snow tires! This is not a 4x4 (that are all in the ditch because they start well but don't stop any better) but I regress. With the Potenza's that come with the car RE040(very noisy and rough riding) forget about driving in the winter. However, put some Pirelli Wintersport 210's on and have fun! I have taken it skiing in Colorado numerous times including blizzard conditions and heavy snow and it came through just fine. Also since the tires are an integral suspension component treat yourself to some Bridgestone Potenza RE960AS Pole Positions - will get you home.
Better than I imagined
spooky8, 07/16/2003
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I waited for 4 months, read every review, and I am surprised that it eclipsed my lofty expectations. I got 17 miles to the gallon on my first tank of gas, so I gave it a 9 on fuel economy, which was still better that I expected. Sat idleing a lot with people looking at it, so 9 probably did not do it justice. Perfewct in every way. 5 mile drive to work is to short, looking for another job in another town. Highly recommended if it fun and excitement your looking for in a car. Test drove and looked at many other while waiting for mine, glad I waited.
Rx-8, Automatic
Crissy, 07/17/2004
2004 Mazda RX-8 Automatic 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've only had my RX-8 for four months but I love it. I researched a lot of cars before I bought it and was interested in a few. I ultimately decided that the RX-8 had the best body design and I couldn't be happier with my choice.
Not so zoom, zoom
rab8, 11/16/2007
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Having owned a RX2 & RX7, I was first in line to buy the RX8 - it has been a mixed bag, though, from day one. Like so many, it has had to return to the dealer over and over and it has been tweaked and had more parts replaced than a plastic surgery freak. It has been more trouble than any car I have owned (15) and yet I want to love it anyway because at heart I'm an unabashed rotaryhead. Mazda has broken my heart on this one - I can't recommend it to anyone except those who love dysfunctional, undependable, expensive cars. Sigh.
Motor mount madness
One Man, 03/12/2008
2004 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
We treat this vehicle like a princess, low mileage with good weather and fairly decent roads to drive on. Today we were told that the motor mounts need to be replaced, at a cost of almost $500. It's hard to believe that this is necessary with less than 25,000 miles on the car. Car or service department?? Would a shimmy in the front end warrant such drastic measures?? Nice car in appearance, but in my opinion does not ride comfortably nor does it seem to be very durable.