Mazda RX-8: Joy Of Life
Published: 14th May 2004
Mazda RX-8
Our most important sense is our ability to see. With our eyes we
recognize colours, forms and movement. And when we look at the Mazda
RX-8, it is passion at first sight. Its design awakens feelings
that we didn’t even know we had. Its forms go beyond what
we usually understand as automotive design. At the same time, the
Mazda RX-8 expresses something that is infinitely valid for every
person not satisfied with achieving something easily. For this kind
of person, sport does not mean effort as much as the challenge the
effort requires. This kind of person takes on a challenge as a way
of overcoming one’s own weaknesses, in order to build the
strength for something new. The Mazda RX-8 challenges convention
to become something new. It is sporty and muscular. It looks
powerful. But it resembles a decathlete more than a weightlifter.
It combines strength with intelligence.
The Mazda RX-8 is also passion and heat, with a design language that expresses a love of speed. It is an example of the aesthetic of covert speed whose appeal was felt by futurists a hundred years ago, who idolized speed and machines, felt it to be a new form of grandeur in this world and made it the centre of their artistic efforts. With a design that celebrates the fact that it is a sports car, the Mazda RX-8's is a physical experience and an invitation to enjoy. And yet, its appearance is the result of an intelligent design process that knew exactly what it wanted to say and how to say it. Nowhere is there baroque extravagance. Rather, it concentrates and expresses a distinctive restraint and the kind of austerity that is inherent in true enjoyment.
This call to enjoy is heightened even further by the tart smell of the leather in its interior, by its intimate yet roomy cabin, by the sound of the high-revving and powerful engine under its bonnet. And by its precise craftsmanship, which is a Japanese meditation on that which is essential, the same calm precision you can find at every Sushi bar with dishes like Temaki, Hosomaki and Uramaki. Its concept is free from all ambiguity and results in a clear use of materials. How deeply the Mazda RX-8 can appeal to a person's emotions is only a question of how open one is to its sensuous beauty.
Yes, the very first encounter with the Mazda RX-8 opens up a world beyond automobile technology. For those willing to step closer and experience the car with their senses, discovering this world begins with a journey into themselves. With a bit of luck, this journey will lead them to the true character of the Mazda RX-8.
For more information about the Mazda RX-8 model range [ click here ]
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 6th July 2008
