Make the move from FD3S Rx-7 -> Rx-8 R3? Help!
 

Currently in the drivers seat, own a FD3S import. Love the car to death, could be happier if it were LHD. Owned the car for close to 4 solid years, but maintenance costs are just killing me. Time for a change, want to stay in Mazda family...

Should I upgrade to the RX-8 R3? Have been considering these listings, as it currently stands. Aside from bad gas mileage what can I expect? Watched youtube reviews and experts agreed the RX-8 handles like a dream.

=====> 2009 MAZDA RX-8 RX8 - R3 PACKAGE <=====
2009 Mazda RX-8 R3 R3

Anybody work at Mazda dealership point me in the right direction to a nice, clean, fair priced RX-8 R3? Willing to offer $200 finder's fee to person who can lead me to the perfect car.

Cheerios :P

Recall driving a 93-94 RX-7 as a 16 year old organ donor. Certainly a joyous experience will never forget. Fast forward to several years ago, the RX-8 was equally as good but just a bit concerning with torque. (Who am I to complain as my current car doesn't even break traction in the rain in 2nd gear).

The R3 spec looks unreal! The seats look like a pretty nice upgrade and the rims don't look like they can improve further. Rear seats look very practical if you got friends. Can you fit two bicycles in the back of that thing?

The R3 is a pretty solid car.

Most of the issues with the earlier 04-06 cars have been ironed out (mostly the flooding)

The running cost should be lower than a FD RX-7 as there are fewer parts.

A friend of mine has an '04 GT, never had any issues and it gets tracked every now and then. Yes, the earlier models did have the flooding issues, but if maintained religiously and driven the way they are supposed to be driven, they *can* be reliable machines.

With that being said, the later models like the R3, aside from consuming oil and gas like mad as they always have, are excellent cars that possess handling prowess comparable to that of the S2000.

And I can confirm that two adults can actually comfortably fit in the rear, more practical than an RX-7 for sure if that's what you're after.

RX-8 is still on my bucket list of cars to own :megusta: the R3 is sort of the epitome of the RX-8.

R3's sport those Recaro seats, 19" wheels, bilstein shocks, and a shorter final drive.

its a pretty nice car.

Don't forget the foam in the front crossmembers

Wow, not sure if Canadian customers apply but the powertrain warranty now is 8 years long to negate any fears of engine failure.

canadian customers apply.

I had the same warranty on my 07' RX-8 as well.

Certainly plausible to buy base model RX-8, and then add mods. Car will be cheaper. I know the R3 adds a higher premium, and I don't want to bother taking to shop to install the mods.

Do you think the R3 is overpriced for what it is? Anyone have first hand experience or own the R3?

dont do it

Don't do it as well. I say keep your RX7 for another year! Make it to one last 7 meet before you trade up the the 8 :fullofwin:

I have a '10 R3 with around 36,000kms on it...as for how the car runs and performs you will probably miss the power of the FD but has abit more practicality. Rear seats work great for driving around friends and good for hauling around small things. I can fit my hockey gear in the back seat but not in the trunk since the opening is too small.

As for engine and maintenance its ok just top up the oil and do regular check ups. The car price is pretty decent I would have to say since rx8 depreciate alot.

Maybe this is a dangerous question, but how much are you actually spending on the FD for maintenance? Will it be more than the maintenance + depreciation of the RX8?

My point is, will there actually be a significant difference in savings after all is said and done.
Fill this out for both cars:
A: Current value
B: Est value in 5 years
C: Est maintenance cost over 5 years
Total Expense = (A - B) + C

So now if the FD has a higher total expense than the RX8, is the difference worth it to still drive the FD?


Of course, it's possible that you're using cost as an excuse because you really just want a change of scenery, in which case, just get the RX8 and ignore the above info :)

*disclaimer.. i know nothing about either car, just giving you what i use when determining savings between cars

Do rotory engines have short life span? I heard stories about Engine replacement on Rx8s

It really all depends how you take care of your car with maintenance and upkeep...with the 09-11 they changed a lot of things with the engine to improve life and reliability. As for earlier versions of the rx8 I have heard mixed reviews on engine life but it all depends like I said.

It all comes down to proper maintenance and proper supporting mods.
I am curious too, how much are you spending on maintaining the FD?

I'm guessing it is the fear of Rx-7 ownership:

"If I floor it right now, will the engine pop a seal?"

http://stream1.gifsoup.com/view1/3573159/rx7-fail-o.gif

i used to work for signature mazda and everytime a rx7/8 came in for repairs or got towed in, the tech would open the hood and just stare at the motor. I would always ask him what was wrong with the car. his answer was alyaws the same.

and he would yell "ITS A FUCKING MAZDA RX7 !(or rx8)"

i have never seen a reliable rotary :lawl:

this is very true. A FD was always on my wish list and I test drove many. I could never get over the large maintenance issue and the fear of breakdowns. If I have the cash, a FD with an LS1 would be perfect.

wow didnt realize how cheap those r3 rx8's are now..... someone correct me but the last time i checked these were like 40g+
Sorry and correct me if im wrong. i dont know anything about mazdas except miatas

To the OP: get the extended warranty if you can/possible.

My 2007 RX-8's engine failed (flooded) and had to be replaced.

I sold the car in 2009.

I was under warranty that time, but I only had it for like 2 years before the engine had to be replaced.

Without the warranty, the tech guy said it would cost around $5,000 (if I remember correctly).

...........

On the other hand, it drove beautifully and the steering felt good, but the ride was a little harsh over small bumps.

Test drive one!

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The price you listed is priced much too high for the kms.

Shop around.