Mazda RX-8 review

So, it takes a bit of work to get the best out of the RX-8. This ought to be no surprise from a mere glance at its spec sheet. There were two versions on offer when new: a 189bhp, five-speed version that kicked prices off at £21,995 (oh, the olden days) and the one you actually wanted, a 227bhp six-speeder. Both delivered peak power well above 7,000rpm; most cars nowadays redline long before then.

How quick?

Mazda claimed a 146mph top speed and 0-62mph in 6.4secs for the more powerful car, which you see here in mid-life 40^th Anniversary special edition trim. A facelift followed shortly after, bringing fussier looks, higher spec, stiffer suspension and a new ‘R3’ suffix.

Those figures look modest written down but they definitely feel accurate (and arguably a little optimistic) in the real world. If you’re at all accustomed with modern turbocharged sports cars, you’ll be frequently glancing down to check you’ve not left the handbrake on during your first few miles in an RX-8. There’s so little go below 4,000rpm you might reasonably wonder if something’s broken.

But it improves above that?

Golly, yes. But it takes a really concerted effort to touch 9,000rpm and milk everything possible from its rotary powertrain – go by sound alone and you’ll have shifted before its power has peaked, so attuned your ears will be to the sound of an overly abused engine. If you’re not willing to chase every last rev you simply won’t experience everything the RX-8 can offer. Its chassis is a delight when its loaded up, but you’ll need gumption to work the engine hard enough to reach that point.

Do so and you’ll enjoy agile handling and quick, feelsome steering. No other contemporary coupe was quite this nimble, their weight figures notably higher than the Mazda’s. Though they undoubtedly had actual, tangible torque to compensate. If you’re willing to trade sheer guts in the name of handling, the RX-8 might just float your boat. Absolutely take a test drive of reasonable length to make sure, though.