Market Position:
Unique sports coupe targeting enthusiasts with its rotary engine and distinctive styling
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with cars like the Nissan 350Z, Acura RSX, and Mitsubishi Eclipse in its segment, offering a unique rotary powertrain alternative.
Key Features:
Renowned for its high-revving rotary engine, near-perfect weight distribution, suicide rear doors, and excellent handling dynamics.
Target Audience:
Automotive enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and owners seeking to maintain and repair their RX-8 effectively.
Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs associated with dealership service.
Engine Systems:
Rotary engine (Renesis), lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, starting and charging
Transmission Systems:
Manual transmission (M/T), Automatic transmission (A/T), clutch, driveshafts, differentials
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, EBD), wheels and tires
Electrical Systems:
Body electrical, lighting, instrumentation, HVAC controls, infotainment, engine control module (ECM), body control module (BCM), wiring diagrams
Body And Frame:
Body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, collision repair, structural integrity
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code diagnosis, component testing, electrical system diagnostics
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component replacement
Component Installation:
Installation of new and replacement parts, accessory installation
Technical Depth:
In-depth, comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on diagnostic procedures and potential use of specialized tools (e.g., OBD-II scanners)
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and clearly labeled electrical wiring diagrams for all systems
Print Quality:
High-resolution, printable pages
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick information retrieval
Device Compatibility:
Compatible with PC, Mac, Tablets, and Smartphones
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Rotary (Wankel)
Engine Name:
Mazda Renesis (13B-MSP)
Displacement:
1308cc (2 x 654cc)
Horsepower Standard:
232 hp @ 8200 rpm (High Power Version)
Horsepower Low Power:
212 hp @ 7500 rpm (Low Power Version - often with Automatic Transmission)
Torque Standard:
159 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm (High Power Version)
Torque Low Power:
151 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (Low Power Version)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, Premium recommended (91 Octane or higher)
Engine Control Module:
ECM
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled, pressurized
Oil Type Recommendation:
API SG/SH/SJ, ILSAC GF-II or higher, SAE 5W-30 (or as specified in manual)
Apex Seals:
Critical wear components requiring specific lubrication and maintenance. Manual will detail inspection and replacement.
Oil Injection:
Two-stroke oil injection system for apex seal lubrication, requires specific 2-stroke oil (e.g., Idemitsu Racing Rotary Oil).
Standard Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (RX-8 R3, GT, GS trims)
Optional Transmission Type:
6-speed Activematic Automatic Transmission (A/T) (often on lower trims or specific markets)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, Diaphragm Spring Type
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (e.g., Mazda Genuine Transmission Oil)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda Genuine ATF-FZ or equivalent Dexron-III/Mercon compatible fluid
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (2004 Model Year)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (2004 Model Year)
IIHS Rear Impact:
Good (2004 Model Year)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, Side airbags, Side curtain airbags, Pretensioner seatbelts, Crumple zones
Infotainment System:
Mazda's Bose premium audio system (optional on some trims), CD player, AM/FM radio, available navigation system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, ABS, DSC, TCS.
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary audio input (on some models/years), power outlets.
Instrumentation:
Tachometer with high redline, speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, multi-information display.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (or as specified in owner's manual/shop manual).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Refer to manual; typically longer intervals for rotary specific plugs, often around 30,000-60,000 miles depending on type and usage.
Rotary Oil Injection Interval:
Continuous replenishment; manual details checks and topping up of 2-stroke oil reservoir.
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent (e.g., P-HOAT or OAT based)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact specification)
Power Steering Fluid:
Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent ATF (Dexron-III compatible, check manual)
Known Issues Rotary Engine:
Potential for apex seal wear, carbon buildup, and ignition system issues (e.g., coil packs, spark plugs). Manual details diagnostic and maintenance procedures to mitigate these.
Known Issues Fuel Pump:
Some reports of fuel pump failure; manual covers troubleshooting and replacement.
Maintenance Tips:
Importance of regular oil changes, using correct rotary oil for injection, regular decarbonization procedures, and consistent driving (avoiding excessive short trips that can lead to carbon buildup).
Brand Heritage:
Mazda has a long history of sports car development, notably with the rotary engine, exemplified by the iconic RX-7 series.
Model Evolution:
The RX-8 succeeded the RX-7 (FD generation) in Mazda's sports car lineup, offering a more practical yet still performance-oriented package with its unique four-door coupe styling.
Production Period:
2003-2012 (global, with the manual covering the initial 2003-2008 period).
Production Location:
Mazda's Hiroshima Plant, Japan
