• Summary

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What does this car say about you?

    I don't care. Every time I get out I have a huge grin on my face and just can't walk away without looking back, even after a year of ownership.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    They love it. The first week of ownership saw all my neighbours coming over to have a look and a ride. It doesn't get any hatred as a German sports car would.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes, because I love it! Don't believe what others say about running costs. In 9000 miles I have used 4.5 litres of oil - only £25! I average about 20mpg which is high until you compare it with other 2.6 cars with similar performance. If you want economy buy a diesel Yaris.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    That question gives me nightmares! I simply have no idea where you go next. Another one? Honda S2000?

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchise

    Did you buy this car new?

    Yes

    What price did you pay?

    £0

    When did you buy the car?

    October 2006

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Yes, more than what car target price

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    I was looking for another hot hatch, such as a Golf GTi or Focus ST, then I spent a weekend with the RX8...

    What was the dealer like?

    Helpful, but had to work hard for the deal

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Superb! It has loads of power when you need it. People who complain about the lack of torque simply don't know how to drive it. It revs to 9000rpm so use it, and it so smooth as you do. It will happily sit at 4000rpm in everyday use and you don't notice it. From then it's like a rocket as soon as you accelerate! It's wonderful fun round corners too; so easy to balance.

    What's it like to park?

    Easy. You can see the boot lip so what more do you want. If you need parking sensors then you also need a man with a red flag in front! Maybe people who can't park it would also put sensors on a fiesta.

  • Living with it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    No

    What's most practical about your car?

    Big boot for a sports car. You have more than enough space for a week away. Rear seats are surprisingly good too; I'm 6'1 and spend an hour in the back without any problems.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Wonderful Bose stereo, but turn it off to listen to the engine!