Updates and Tweaks to the Mazda RX-8 R3
Published: 13th January 2008
Mazda RX-8 Side View
Performance Innovations - Even More Driving Pleasure
Through-and-through, the RX-8 is a pure sports car that gives the driver an exciting and dynamic experience. Engineers improved body rigidity of the new Mazda RX-8 through the addition of structural reinforcements, by adding a trapezoidal bracing bar between the front suspension towers and enhancing the local rigidity of the tower areas.
Also, the rear suspension geometry has been reconfigured for better handling performance and driveshaft rigidity is improved, lowering NVH (Noise Vibration and Harshness) levels and improving performance.
In addition, the differential gear ratio is lowered (from 4.444:1 to 4.777:1) for improved off-the-line performance. These changes give RX-8 increased acceleration and performance, as well as even greater responsiveness to the accelerator pedal – always a rotary-engine and Mazda RX-8 hallmark.
The Mazda RX-8 remains the only mass-produced rotary-powered passenger car in the world. While exhibiting unusually high power output for a naturally aspirated engine, RENESIS outstrips comparable reciprocating engines in terms of acceleration, the feeling of power in reserve and ‘instant’ throttle response.
Depending on individual markets, the new Mazda RX-8 will be available as either a 231ps-model fitted with a six-speed manual transmission, or a 205ps model fitted with a five-speed manual transmission. The RENESIS engine is remarkably smooth and high revving – all the way to 9000rpm – and is significantly more compact than traditional internal combustion engines. In fact, the packaging and styling that define the RX-8 would not have been possible had Mazda engineers chosen a conventional piston engine.
Ultimate Performance - The Mazda RX-8 R3
To cater to the driving-conscious enthusiast, the new Mazda RX-8 will offer a sport package. Providing the very best in rotary-powered motoring, this package adds a sport-tuned suspension with Bilstein shock absorbers and front suspension crossmembers filled with urethane foam. Filling the crossmembers makes for a smoother ride, minimises NVH and ensures greater suspension control.
On the visual side of the sport package, a new rear spoiler, side sills, fog lights and sports front bumper are added to give an aggressive appearance, along with 19-inch forged aluminum‑alloy wheels with high performance tyres. Inside, this model adds front Recaro sport seats with leather side bolsters and colour coordinated stitching to leather-wrapped parking brake handle, steering wheel and gear knob.
Mazda RX-8
Our Mazda RX-8 Guide lists the full specification of the current UK RX-8 range, including car prices, fuel consumption, dimensions and other vital data.
Price Range: £21,605 - £23,105
Body Style:
Fuel:
Models in the range: 2
We have road tested the Mazda RX-8, to read our in-depth car reviews:
Mazda RX-8 Review - Feb 2005
Mazda RX-8 Review - May 2007
Our Car Buyer’s Guide covers all of the UK’s major new cars and includes CO2 ratings and car insurance groups. Data updated on the 25th Jun 2008
