The 1st Generation Mazda RX-8 was introduced in 2003. Mazda RX-8 is a front engine rear wheel drive coupe sports car, the RX-8 is officially classified as a quad coupe. The 1st Generation Mazda RX-8 is the successor to the 2-door Mazda RX-7 sportscar. During production, the Mazda RX8 received a facelift that introduced a series of cosmetic upgrades. Mazda RX8 1st Generation was discontinued in 2012 because it’s Wankel engine could no longer comply with the stricter European emissions standards which were its main market. Mazda RX-8 was available in 2 trim levels Sport and Grand Touring. The price of the Mazda RX8 is extremely competitive when compared with other cars in the same class available in the local market.
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The exterior of the Mazda RX8 features a unique and distinctive design language. The front end houses slim narrow side swept headlights, a large trapezium shaped black grille, rectangular styled fog lights and a front splitter. The sides feature small dual suicide doors and flared wheel arches. The rear end houses a small lip spoiler and angular side swept taillights with circular inserts. The facelifted variant of the features a more aggressive design language, the front end houses slimmer narrow and sleeker side swept taillights, a larger black colored trapezium shaped front grille, dual rectangular styled fog lights and quad air intakes. The side’s features larger flared wheel arches and a different rim design. The rear end houses features the same design though with clear taillights, a larger rear spoiler and a more aggressive designed and larger rear diffuser. All variants of the Mazda RX8 feature identical styling in every aspect. The overall exterior of the 1st Generation Mazda RX8 features a distinctive design language that allows it to stand out amongst its rivals.
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The interior of the Mazda RX-8 1st Generation features the use of black and silver plastic trim pieces. The front and rear seats are covered in fabric. Standard features include headed and power door mirrors, climate control, cruise control, power windows, keyless entry, front and rear cupholders and a 6-speaker stereo audio system. Features on the higher end Gran touring variant include automatic climate control, power moonroof, memory seats, auto-dimming rearview mirror, 9-speaker stereo audio system, rain sensing windscreen wipers, fully automatic headlights, heated front seats and leather upholstery. Options include satellite navigation. The overall interior of the 2003 Mazda RX-8 features a good amount of interior space in the front but a lack of space in the rear, it also provides a great level of comfort and a goo ride quality.
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Engine
1.3 Liter Wankel Rotary Engine
Gearbox
5-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
6-Speed Manual Transmission
6-Speed Automatic Transmission
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Mazda RX-8 can achieve an average of up to 7KM/L making for an estimated driving range of up to 455KM from the Sports Cars 65-liter fuel tank.
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The main competitors of the 1st Generation Mazda RX8 are the Nissan 350Z, Nissan 370Z, BMW Z4, Porsche Boxster, Honda S2000 and Audi TT.
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1.3 Liter Wankel Rotary Engine 197bhp@7500RPM
1.3 Liter Wankel Rotary Engine 212bhp@7500RPM
1.3 Liter Wankel Rotary Engine 238 bhp@8500RPM
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Pros
Great Performance
Great handling and drive
Good ride quality
Comfortable interior
Cons
Clutch has a short life.
Uneconomical
Lack of space in rear se