The 2004 Mazda RX-8 marked the return of a true rotary-powered sports car to Mazda’s global lineup. As the successor to the beloved RX-7, the RX-8 was designed to blend high-revving performance and sharp handling with practicality — an unusual but intriguing combination in the world of rear-wheel-drive coupes.
Powered by Mazda’s iconic Renesis rotary engine, the RX-8 stood out in a market dominated by piston engines. It offered four doors (with hidden rear-hinged rear doors), seating for four adults, a near-perfect weight distribution, and a redline that soared past 9,000 rpm. Even today, the RX-8 remains one of the most distinctive sports cars of the early 2000s.
1. Rotary Engine: The Heart of the RX-8
The defining characteristic of the RX-8 is its 1.3L Renesis rotary engine. Unlike traditional piston engines, rotary engines use a spinning triangular rotor in an oval housing to generate combustion. This compact, high-revving design allows for a low center of gravity and smooth power delivery.
2004 Engine Specs:
| Configuration | Horsepower | Torque | Redline | Transmission | 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6-speed manual | 238 hp @ 8,500 rpm | 159 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm | 9,000 rpm | 6MT | ~5.9 sec |
| 4-speed automatic | 197 hp @ 7,200 rpm | 164 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm | 7,500 rpm | 4AT | ~7.2 sec |
Key differences: The manual version produced significantly more horsepower and revved higher than the automatic variant. Mazda tuned the engine differently for each transmission due to reliability and thermal management concerns.
Despite the small 1.3L displacement, the engine behaves like a much larger engine due to its rotary design. But it does so with limited torque, requiring drivers to rev high to access peak performance — something that thrilled enthusiasts but puzzled some casual drivers.
2. Chassis and Handling
Mazda’s engineers placed a strong emphasis on balance and control. The RX-8 boasts a 50:50 front-to-rear weight distribution, achieved by mounting the engine behind the front axle and placing the transmission and fuel tank centrally.
Suspension and Steering:
- Double wishbone front suspension
- Multi-link rear suspension
- Rack-and-pinion steering with hydraulic assist
- Curb weight: ~1,370–1,430 kg (3,020–3,150 lbs)
The result was one of the best-handling cars in its class, with precise turn-in, minimal understeer, and a planted feel through corners. Reviewers praised the RX-8 for feeling light on its feet, agile, and communicative — making it a favorite among track-day enthusiasts.
3. Exterior Design
The RX-8 featured a bold and futuristic design for its time. It took styling cues from the RX-EVOLVE concept and added functional features such as rear-hinged “freestyle” rear doors for improved access to the rear seats — without the need for a full sedan structure.
Notable Exterior Features:
- Swept-back headlights and sculpted hood
- Flared wheel arches and wide stance
- Dual exhaust outlets
- 16″ or 18″ alloy wheels depending on trim
- Compact rear deck with integrated spoiler (GT trim)
Despite being a coupe, the RX-8 was surprisingly practical, offering everyday usability with a sleek and sporty aesthetic.
4. Interior and Features
Inside, the RX-8 blended driver-focused ergonomics with a sporty, minimalist aesthetic. The cabin featured seating for four — two in the front and two individual seats in the rear, with decent legroom for a coupe-style car.
Interior Highlights:
- Three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Rotary-themed gauges with digital speedometer
- Sport seats with bolstering and optional leather
- Aluminum pedals and shifter (manual models)
- CD stereo with optional Bose audio system
- Cruise control, air conditioning, and power windows standard on most trims
Trims like the GT and GT-Luxury in Canada added heated leather seats, sunroof, xenon headlights, and premium stereo systems.
5. Trim Levels (Canada/U.S. Market)
| Trim | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Base / GS | Cloth interior, 16″ wheels, 4-speaker audio |
| GT / Sport | Leather seats, 18″ alloys, Xenon headlights |
| GT-Luxury / Grand Touring | Moonroof, heated seats, Bose audio, navigation (optional) |
| Shinka Edition (U.S.) | Special paint, upgraded leather, unique interior trim (limited production) |
Buyers looking for a purist experience often chose the 6-speed manual GT, while others valued the comfort and daily usability of the automatic-equipped trims.
6. Reliability and Ownership Considerations
Here is where the RX-8 becomes polarizing. While the driving experience is exceptional, reliability is a known concern — primarily due to the rotary engine.
Common Issues:
- Flooded engine on cold starts if not warmed up properly
- High oil consumption due to design — owners must check oil levels regularly
- Apex seal wear leading to compression loss
- Ignition coil failure
- Poor fuel economy: ~13.8 L/100 km (17 mpg city)
Owners who followed Mazda’s guidelines — warming up the engine fully before turning it off, checking oil weekly, and using the correct spark plugs — often experienced far fewer issues. Neglect, however, could result in costly repairs or engine rebuilds before 160,000 km (100,000 miles).
7. Fuel Economy and Insurance
The RX-8 is not fuel-efficient, particularly by 2024 standards. Real-world fuel economy ranged from:
- City: 13.8–14.7 L/100 km (~16–17 mpg)
- Highway: 9.8–10.5 L/100 km (~22–24 mpg)
Premium fuel is required. Additionally, because of its performance classification, insurance premiums were higher than average compact cars.
8. Legacy and Enthusiast Appeal
Despite its quirks, the RX-8 has developed a loyal following. It remains one of the last mass-produced rotary-powered vehicles and represents Mazda’s commitment to innovation and driver enjoyment.
The RX-8 is:
- Affordable on the used market
- Easy to modify for track or autocross use
- Supported by an active rotary engine community
- A future classic, especially clean, unmodified manual versions
Today, the RX-8 is appreciated by enthusiasts for what it is: a unique and rewarding car that demands attention and care but offers a driving experience like no other.
Conclusion: The 2004 Mazda RX-8 Is Not for Everyone — But That’s Exactly the Point
The 2004 Mazda RX-8 is an enthusiast’s car, built for those who value precision handling, rev-happy engines, and driving purity over raw horsepower or practicality. It requires more maintenance and attention than the average coupe, but in return, it delivers an experience that few modern vehicles can replicate.
If you’re willing to learn its quirks and treat it right, the RX-8 rewards you with one of the most connected driving experiences of the last two decades. For driving enthusiasts, it remains one of Mazda’s boldest and most memorable creations.
