Used 2005 Mazda RX-8 Coupe Consumer Reviews
Used RX-8 for sale
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Love My Rx8
tecatemn, 01/26/2006
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned this car now for over six months. I have had only a couple of issues with it such as the center console, replaced once, seems very fragile. Also had a clip replace on the front spoiler. The car drives great very responsive with excellent steering. Not a powerhouse but by no means a weakling.
Great Car
Fun to Drive by Bob, 01/26/2006
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is so much fun to drive. We did a test drive 6 months before we bought and fell in love with the car. It handles like a dream and is too fast for local streets. The car takes every corner with no problems and puts you back in the seat with each gear. I love it. Gas mileage is what is expected from a sports car. Did I tell you it goes really really fast. WOW!
2005 Mazda RX-8 for sale near you
Showing 3 of 3 listings
- Coupe 4DMSRP: $7,992297 mi away
- Automatic CoupeMSRP: $7,995913 mi away
- Manual CoupeMSRP: $4,9952,019 mi away
awesome
na, 03/02/2006
2005 Mazda RX-8 Automatic Shinka Special Edition 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is amazing. Fun to drive as long as you got the gas money.
RX8 6-speed can't handle the power
alamoman, 03/05/2006
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We have had an 05 RX8 with the 6-speed for 18 months. The rotary engine is much improved over the old one. My wife loves to drive it and we both like the styling. I enjoy hearing a motor rev about 7,000 rpms. We have had to replace the transmission, starter, and spark plugs. Too high maintenance for me.
Not made for long distance driving.
Ty, 03/17/2006
2005 Mazda RX-8 Automatic 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It is a nice looking car. Not as comfortable as I would like but hey, it's a sport car not a family sedan. The bucket seats are not comfortable for long distance trips. It's kind of slow off the line but once it hits about 3500 rpm, this thing can go. Like many other people, I would like a bit more torque in this puppy. It is nice on the freeway, only if you're not living in LA. I am just wondering what is the top speed on an automatic? If you are looking for a fun car to drive and want to be different then everyone else, this may be the car for you.
hard on old bodies
trolkeeper, 06/22/2006
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It is a little too low to the ground for this old body. I would not buy it again only for this reason. Otherwise it is a great car. Beautiful to look at and every one comments on it.
Nice Car Fun to Drive
cindy, 08/28/2006
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had mine for over a year, still love it. Of course it's bad in the snow but it's rear wheel drive so I expected that.
Don't she purr?
Jwoods, 08/29/2006
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had 2 Mustang GTs, a Corvette, a RX-7 and presently have a Chrysler Crossfire (new) and a Mercedes C230 and this is my favorite so far. The comfortable ride doesn't beat you up, responsive engine, smooth shifting transmission, the Bose stereo and I could go on. But Al Pacino summed it up best in Scent of a Woman when he said " Don't she purr, though" while driving the Ferrari.
RX-8
Michie, 11/08/2006
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my RX-8. I think it has a great sleek design that really turns heads and the back doors were a great idea for those who want a sports car, but still have the comfort of a four door sedan. The car handles great & really grips the road, however it is very important to warm the vehicle up before driving in the cold weather otherwise you could possibly flood the engine. Also, you really need to keep an eye on the oil level because with the rotary it burns very hot. Other than that, the car is a ton of fun and really a head turner!
RX-8 Rocks
BOP, 11/16/2006
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The RX-8 is a great car on the curves and is really fun to drive, the main complaint is the amount of torque (too little) and the gas mileage is terrible (I get 16.5 mpg), but besides those 2 issues I wouldn't change it.
Mazda in Waco, TX
Greta Texas, 11/15/2006
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual Shinka Special Edition 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just bought my dream car. Never thought I'd own a sports car and now I do. The RX-8 is sporty yet is also has a backseat, four doors, and a trunk to hold groceries. I love it!
zoom zoom fun
eh2003, 11/24/2006
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I really love to drive this car and drive it fast. It will hit turns harder than a sport bike and ask for more. I don't like the gas mileage which is 18mpg if I run the heck out of it and 21 if I don't. This could be the perfect sports car if it had a healthy torque boost on the low end. Other than that it is really a blast to drive.
Performance and Design beats MPG
piston to rotary, 12/02/2006
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Love the looks and performance of this automobile. Interior accommodations are very nice and high quality. I have been looking at these autos for the last three years and finally took the plunge and found a low mileage 05. Prices appear to be falling and the car doesn't appear to have the residual that I thought it would, Seems folks might have been scared off by the less than ideal mpg and high octane requirements. All in all this is an excellent vehicle that performs beautifully, looks outstanding, handles like a slot car and has good Japanese quality.
Great Car
RX8, 01/05/2007
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great all round car! Recommend for anyone who wants a good car that handles and looks great or as a second vehicle for the family man/woman. Very fun to drive. Only wish it had better gas mileage ( I get 17 city and 20.5 hwy) and even though it is quick, just a bit more torque would be needed if you like to have low 0-60 times.
Better than ever
JS, 01/17/2007
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Love the acceleration especially on LA freeways, and it's roomy enough for four, and can load it up with lots of bags, boxes or groceries with the convenient four doors. Its performance, handling and reliability have been excellent. I haven't had to do any maintenance like adding oil or anything else. It's fun and easy to drive.
I love this car
Marcia W, 01/30/2007
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Traded in a Miata for this car with no regrets so far. I love the interior and titanium grey color. I love the suicide doors where I can put my bags. The back seats are comfy too.
From Acura to Mazda
Love4Rotors, 01/27/2007
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When I traded in my RSX type-S I thought I would regret it, but I love my RX-8, recalls and all. Yes, it has bad mpg and has to be wound up to move but it is a sports car I that is what one should expect. This is the best ride of any sports car for the money. I only drive back and forth from work with the rare trip out of town, but this car always makes it enjoyable, even though it takes it longer to warm up than drive to work. I would suggest this car to anyone who is looking for more than basic transportation. This is a very enjoyable car that can easily be your only car.
More problems than its worth
Ron, 02/03/2007
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have tried to like this car. Looks great. However have had many problems. Replaced both headlight assembly and taillight assembly for moisture problems. Front end, exhaust, brakes have been worked on. Replaced motor mounts, spark plugs, and now transmission. Still have a tapping noise in the engine when in gear. Lots of road noise. Tired of taking it to the dealership. Had a 1993 Mustang that gave me less trouble.
Zoom Zoom Fun
nuneswa, 04/22/2007
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had my RX-8 almost 2 years now. I liked the cornering and the thrust at high revs compared to the competition and I thought the interior was superior as well (besides the location of the cup holder, bad place). My friends do not mind riding in the back and they get a kick of the back doors. The RX-8 really sticks to the road on hair pin corners and switch backs. For about 10 miles my drive to work is full of hair pins and switch backs. This car helps me look forward to getting to work. I love to drive, and this car satisfies me.
Still love it, but a big baby!
JodyLa, 08/06/2007
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car new in '05 and have put 20,000 miles on it so far. I love this car! My only negatives are constantly having to check the oil and if you shut the car off and it didn't warm up, you are in big trouble! I've have to have it towed to the dealership because of this! Always let the car warm up before shutting it off!
Love the car
shinka lover, 08/19/2007
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual Shinka Special Edition 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is an outstanding sports car. If you know how to handle a rotary engine, it should last you a life time. Read the owners manual carefully and follow its instructions on warm-up and down. It doesn't take that much time for either. My wife and I have taken it on a few road trips and were pleased with the overall comfort. It has an incredible stereo system. The shifting (manual) is very smooth. The seat heaters can burn your fanny off if you are not careful!
It's great and almost practical
Doug, 10/11/2007
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual Shinka Special Edition 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Purchased w/10K miles on it. Have had no problems, just regular visits for O/C, etc. Car has been great (now 20K Mi). You need to get over 4K RPMs to appreciate the car, handling is great and it's plain fun to drive. Have used winter Dunlops and aside from high drifts, it drives great on snow. Trunk is deceptively large although back seat is only usable if the front seats are in mid position. Mileage is average and engine burns about 1qt every 1000 miles. For the price it's a great value, particularly with the 4yr 50K warranty. A good sportscar option less pedestrian than eclipse or Z. Have owned Acuras, Jags and MB's, this is fun & saves $!
Stay Away From This Car!!
CAL, 06/21/2007
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Beautiful car, inside and out, except under the hood. Mazda really goofed when they decided to bring back the rotary engine. Very big mistake on their part. Loved the car for the first 30,000 miles then the nightmare began. Rough idle and cut off at stops. Had it towed and Mazda claimed everything was fine... what a joke. Mine was in the shop 9 times in the past 6 months for this problem. All Mazda does is add and change out the engine mounts. Good luck to you innocent people who still have yours, traded mine two weeks ago for a 2007 Mitsubishi Spyder. Could not be happier to be rid of my RX-8 headache. Beware!!
Head tuner
RX-8, 07/19/2007
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The handling on this car is excellent. The power is great at high rpm. The look of this car is like no other sport cars out there. No a lot of RX-8 owners out there, so you will turn heads as you drive around town.
RX-8, Most fun car for the money
Chris, 07/25/2007
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have been a fan of the old RX-7s since my youth so as soon as the divorce was final; it was time to trade in the Tundra for a loaded RX-8. I have owned many vehicles and this one by far takes the cake. I have never driven a more fun peppy car in all my days. The way it takes corners and accelerates on to the highways is a thing of beauty. The 9000 RPM redline is a dream and going over 80 miles an hour in 3rd is quite a feat.
Oh Shinka!
SK, 08/01/2007
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual Shinka Special Edition 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Shinka is hot! Been on numerous tri-state road trips and the fun quotient cannot be matched. Unique looks of the Shinka garner a lot of admiration even from fellow RX-8 owners. Has passed all recall tests with flying colors. Similar bugs already mentioned but overall an awesome, sexy yet functional car. Only cons - light colored leather and the gas mileage.
Best car I have ever owned
Keflavic, 11/20/2007
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
With just a recall for replacement of starter, and spark plug wires, car has been excellent and the best compared to late model BMW 3-series, and Lexus IS 300 I have owned.
Rotar-heads first rx-8
waterproofone, 03/26/2008
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've owned 4 rx-7s. Only one of which was a lemon because I purchased from a friend and it was not well taken care of. I love the rotary engines and they have all been great. As long as you make sure the oil is filled with quality oil and the coolant is full all of the time you should be fine. The Rx-8 is less of a car in some manners and more in other areas than the rx-7. I love them both but think the rx-7s had more character to them. They were simpler and not so many sensors and design flaws. I hate the gas mileage and some of the rattles inside but the car so far is good. I have had it in the shop to repair many things/rattles and other things and so far they have not complained.
Best Sports Car for the Buck
krusty, 03/27/2008
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
By far the funnest car to drive short of shelling out 130k for a Porsche 911 GT3. A very beautiful design. I test drove the Nissan 350Z and knew within 1/4 mile which car I liked better...the RX8. Great handling, stability, and braking. I do have after-market BF Goodrich G-Force, which are incredible and probably a much better tire then stock (first upgrade). Very comfortable on highway. The car is deceiving in how fast it really is. You will be going 100mph and not even notice it and very stable and easy to drive at that speed. Bose Stereo is great. Transmission (manual) is smooth as butter and has very short throw. Your power is at 5000RPM and up, so you have to learn how to drive this car
20000 mile update
Stenn, 04/14/2008
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual Shinka Special Edition 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When I bought it, I wrote here that it was an exercise in engineering theory and perfection, but not practical due to low fuel efficiency vs. high fuel costs. Well, 20K miles later, I'm still infatuated with it, wouldn't think of driving anything else, and have gotten used to its MPG after an '05 Mustang driver told me he gets the same 15 mpg I do. I'd MUCH rather have this than a Mustang!! I admit that 15 mph is around town and short highway runs, usually doing 100 mph+ to and from work, so of course it's going to suck the gas. But the handling of this thing !! :) And the sound system can't be beat. And it's still the most gorgeous thing on the road if you ask me.
Fun To Drive
New Jersey RX-8, 04/15/2008
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very fun to drive except for the horrible gas mileage. Everyone says it's a sports car but for a car that cant turn a sub 14 second quarter mile, 14 mpg is pretty sorry. I will concede it does carve corners as well as probably anything else out there for the price.
ZOOM ZOOM
koolmomm, 06/30/2022
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual Shinka Special Edition 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought the Shinka as son as it came out and I LOVED IT.The best car I ever had. Unfortunately,instead of buying ,i was advised to LEASE it instead.BIG MISTAKE ! Beware a lease limits you in mileage ,so since I had moved out of town and was doing a lot more mileage then when I bought it,I had to trade it very quickly .I wished I still had it! Zoom Zoom
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Most vain car ever made
brandon, 05/27/2009
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 3 people found this review helpful
Ok so I bought this car fresh after becoming single and this car was the vainest purchase I have ever made in my life. The car IS sexy, but that is it. It is not cheap, HORRIBLE ON GAS, and EXTREMELY HIGH maintenance!!! You have to check the oil a lot, it has to be run everyday or it won't turn over. Please learn from my mistake and buy a reliable and practical car.
Never Again
scullymo, 04/26/2011
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 3 people found this review helpful
This has bee one of my worst car buying experiences. Its hot, and fun to drive and all that, but the air conditioner never works. I have taken it to dealers in 3 states and they all say the same thing, "that's just the way it is, get used to it." I will never drive another Mazda because their customer service everywhere is awful!
i would not buy one again
rx8joe, 03/28/2005
2005 Mazda RX-8 Manual Shinka Special Edition 4dr Coupe (1.3L 2rtr 6M)
0 of 3 people found this review helpful
when i got my rx8 home, i was looking for the spare tire. lo and behold there is no spare tire.. it is an option. which cost me 477 more. the saleslady forgot to mention that the rx8 uses oil. actually she forgot to mention many things about the rx8. and most importantly she left out the part about these cars are prone to flooding. if you do not let your engine warm up. will i buy one of these again? no... in fact as soon as i can i am getting rid of it.. nothing but problems since i've gotten it..