Is the 2004 Mazda RX-8 worth purchasing?

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NewOrleansKnowHow

New member
I am considering buying a red mica 2004 RX-8. The listed price is $14,250 and it has about 41,000 miles on it.

I've heard varying things about the car, especially the 2004 model. I know it doesn't get great gas mileage, but I'm worried more about reliability and overall satisfaction.

I currently have a 1995 Nissan Altima. It has given me minimal problems over the years and still runs great. AC has never failed, just minor hiccups like alternator replacement and such. Few hundred dollars here and there every so often, but otherwise has been a fantastic car over the years. But it can't keep up forever...although it seems like it could possibly lol.

So, overall, what is your assessment of the 2004 RX-8? I'm torn and don't know what to do. Can you help?
Some details:

Automatic Transmission
Power windows
Front Ventilated disc brakes
In-Dash single CD player
AM/FM stereo
Radio Data System
Speed Sensitive Audio Volume Control
Total Number of Speakers: 6
Privacy glass: Light
Silver alloy rims
Leather steering wheel trim
Leather shift knob trim
Piano black dash trim
Piano black door trim
Metal-look center console trim
Auxilliary engine cooler
Manufacturer's 0-60mph acceleration time (seconds): 7.6
Power remote driver mirror adjustment
Power remote passenger mirror adjustment
Dual illuminated vanity mirrors
Power remote trunk release
Front reading lights
Anti-theft alarm system
Cloth seat upholstery
Sunroof
 
No. Unless you really want the RX8. The engine needs to get replaced often, sometimes 10-15-or in my case 57k miles. The warranty is still good on the 04 (8 yrs/100k miles). But still, getting a new engine is not cool, at least, not for me. The mpg sucks. The torque is horrible, and there's the constant threat of flooding. It's slow off the line. It is however fun to drive, and loves twistie roads. If you don't mind having engine problems or you plan on selling it before the warranty is up, go for it. But I would never buy one. Too much maintenance required. The rotary engine is still too new to be a daily driver.
 
I own a silver 04 rx8 and love it. Got it about 2 yrs and its been running ace. People complain about maintenance and all but its not that bad. Just keep tabs on the oil. I wish it was a bit quicker but its suitable for me. It handles like a dream and makes me wanna push it as far as i can. A big selling point to me was jut the looks overall. Its got some real over the edge curves that i love. Ive done some aftermarket work to mine to suit me so i love it even more.
 
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