Mazda RX-8 (2003 - 2010) PZ 4d (2006/06) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Not sure - it's a deal more sensible that some of the vehicles I've owned previously...

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

I think they consider it as grandparents consider their grandchildren - nice to see them from time to time, but very good to be able to hand them back to the owners!

Would you buy this car again and why?

Without a doubt yes. Buy a broken one and get it rebuilt with a reputable engineering firm, and you have a cheap, safe highly entertaining hoonmobile.

What are you likely to buy next?

Any other car would be in addition to this, so it wouldn't be a fair successor. My Land Cruiser's done over 330,000 miles now, so I think its about due for replacement...

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£3,250

When did you buy the car?

April 2014

Did you get a good deal and why?

So-so - managed to beat the price down after spotting the condition of the brakes, undertrays and the dubious misfire.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Reputation of its entertaining driving characteristics.

What was the dealer like?

Like a standard second-hand car dealer - willing to do almost anything to try and extract cash.

What's it like to drive?

It can get grumpy in traffic - its home territory is twisty B-roads. Steering is pin-sharp with none of the vagueness some electrically-assisted systems have and the brakes are both powerful and easily modulated. An absolute hoot to drive and well worth some of the shortfalls others mention in my opinion.

What's it like to park?

A doddle - not sure what problems others have had, but the extremities of the car are clearly predictable and it has both a tight steering lock and an excellent handbrake, making manoeuvering on hills easy.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Perfectly reliable until its not! I had an idea the engine was about to do something horiffic, but it soldiered on for six months until it spat an apex seal out of the exhaust. Started every time, no squeaks or rattles, great brakes and even started when half of the engine had let go. Heavy oil use is a myth - perhaps 100ml per 600 miles.

What's most practical about your car?

Big boot, fast electric windows, speed-sensitive stereo volume.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

PZ-edition Bilstein springs and dampers - turns a good car into a great one!