Mazda RX-8

I drove a 09' recently, while it might be considered underpowered by some, the car rev's for days. As for handling, the car simply rotates around turns with very little effort. Its looks aren't for everyone, but the car is the perfect blend of fun and functionality. The dealer did say the early production Renesis engine was more prone to problems (I can't confirm this, but there are reports of the rotary's tendency to blow, especially if not carefully maintained).

I hope you don't care about fuel economy.

Or oil consumption, the rotary engine loves to burn oil.

I currently own an 04 RX8... just hit 50,000km's (like 35k miles or something) **Also for sale!** I also own an 09 BMW 128i, and the girlfriend drives an 08 GTI, so I have some close competition for comparisons sake. The faults of the RX8 are as follows: 1) Its thirsty... Gas mileage is lackluster... 2) The Renesis motors are prone to failure, so make sure you have warranty 3)It lacks torque However, 1)It is one of the best handling and 'feeling' cars on the road today 2)9500 RPM in the morning feels fantastic! 3)Mazda dished out an 8 year (I think) power train warranty, so the motor issue is fairly insignificant *Check with Mazda for all the details* The oil issues are an overblown internet fad... Rotary engines don't 'burn' oil in a traditional sense... Rather it uses oil in its lubrication process, therefore you just keep a quart of oil in your trunk, and add every 3-10 fill ups... I actually check the levels of oil every 6 months or so, and its really not a hassle at all. Comparo: The RX is a better drivers car then either the 128, or the GTI. In a drag race, the RX and 128 will leave the GTI behind, with the 128 inching out the RX at higher speeds.... I am part of a small car club, consisting of some pretty serious cars, and I've never felt lackluster in the RX... And that has given me some time to really appreciate, and USE the Mazda to its true potential... Finally, I would, and probably will purchase another RX8 when this one has sold... When you read the reviews, its never the fastest... But the reviewers tend to always rate it at, or near the front of the pack simply due to its 'feel'... (Given, it is outdated now) Buy it, Love it.

Have you considered a Z coupe or an S2000?

They look best in black.

Take a look at the S2000 ('by look' I mean drive one)... they are loads of fun and since it's a Honda, it's more reliable than most things on the road.

Take a spin in one, I've always considered Mazda to offer some of the best handling auto's for the money. If can you find one in good condition, you won't be disappointed by the driving dynamics. I personally would choose it over both the Z and the S2000, however I got a 2 year-old son to take care of, so a backseat is a must.

Used Mazda with rotary engine can brake your bank. No parts available after market for any Mazdas and their dealer labor rate is insanely high.
So although I loved Rx7 and appreciate Rx8 they might be very expensive to own.

Gorgeous looking car. Had a brief flirtation with it. Drives like stink, but you always have to rev the damn thing to 9 grand to get anything out of it. Plus, buy shares in Castrol. You'll be using a lot of oil. Top up everytime you fill up, so says my forum guys who have owned one. As such, the cons outweighed the pros. And then my son bitch slapped me for even thinking of leaving BMW. YMMV. Good luck.

Would it be difficult to secure a baby car seat and child in the back, with those weird suicide rear doors?

The doors are absolutely perfect for a child seat, in addition it had a pretty decent amount of headroom in the back, given the size and make up of the car.