Honda S2000 vs Mazda RX-8 vs BMW E36 M3 (Modified) - Head to Head Review!

Zygrene logo shirt: www.customink....
VTEC Always Wins shirt: www.customink....
2002 Honda S2000 (IG @rcktboi):
Engine & Drivetrain
-CT engineering cold air intake
-Remark x Zero Auto Factory single exit catback exhaust
-Rainh8r valve cover mod
-radium dual catch can setup
-AP2 valve retainers & keepers
-AP2 transmission
-OSGiken 1.5 Way LSD
Suspension
-JRZ RS Pro 2-Way w/ Remote Reservoirs
-Karcepts Front and Rear Sway Bar
-EVS Tuning Rear Bump Steer Kit
-J’s Racing S2 Front Roll Center Adjuster/Camber Joint
-Blox Front Bumpsteer kit
Brakes
-AP Racing 5000R Front Big Brake Kit
-Urge Vented Rear Rotor
Wheels & Tires
-Volk TE37 Saga 17x10 +47
-Kumho Ecsta V730 255/40/17
Body
-OEM Hardtop
-Front control arm Gusset plates (reinforce front upper control arm mount
-Karcepts Rear Wheel Hubs
-Innovative differential & transmission mounts
-Vibratechnic engine mounts
-Ballade spherical bushings
Interior
-Recaro RS-GS bucket seat (driver)
-Recaro Pole Position bucket seat (passenger)
-CR shift knob
2004 Mazda RX-8 GT (IG @gurei_eito):
Engine:
Racing Beat Revi air intake + ram air duct
HKS Hi-Power single exit exhaust
BHR midpipe and Gesi G-Sport Gen2 high flow catalytic converter
BHR ignition coils
Brainstorm tuning intake hose
Versatuner Pro tuning software w/ canned 91-octane tune
CSF aluminum radiator
Rx8performance underdrive alternator + radiator pulley
Drivetrain + chassis
Axialflow short throw shifter
Goodridge stainless steel clutch line
OS giken 1.5 way LSD in Series 2 housing (4.77 final drive) w/ OS-250R diff fluid
Rx8performance polyurethane engine mounts
Whiteline polyurethane differential mount bushings
Mazdaspeed front strut bar
Corksport rear strut bar
Super Rigid subframe collars
Suspension + brakes:
Bilstein PSS coilovers
Progress Tech NC Miata front adjustable sway bar
Evo-R adjustable sway bar end links
Pettit Racing 6-piston 14 inch front big brake kit
Pettit Racing rear 2-piece rotor
Pettit Racing semi-metallic pads
Pettit Racing stainless steel front brake lines
Stoptech stainless steel rear brake lines
Exterior + wheels:
Leg Motor Sport Vision front bumper w/ carbon lip and canards
Leg Motor Sport GT-A rear bumper - carbon fiber hybrid w/ carbon diffuser strakes
Leg Motor Sport v2 side skirts - carbon fiber hybrid
Leg Motor Sport GT-A fender set (vented front fenders and rear overfenders)
R-Magic carbon fiber vented hood
Mazdaspeed rear wing
Feast Power wing risers
AIT carbon fiber trunk
Ganador aero mirrors w/ Garage Alpha LHD mirror lenses
Suntek CXP 45 tinted windows w/ CXP 80 tinted front window
Gloss black B-pillar trim
Leg Motor Sport blank anodized window buttons
Never Content license plate frame
Odula eyelids
PPF front end
Morimoto 2.5in black series projector lenses
Leg Motor Sport lighting kit for Vision bumper
Intec / Valenti RX-8 LED tail lamps - smoked
Intec / Valenti RX-8 LED third brake light - smoked
Wedssport TC105X EJ-Titan (18 x 9.5 + 25)
Hankook RS4 tires (265/35R18)
1998 BMW E36 M3 (IG @wstatus):
S54 oil filter housing, oil pump and pan
JE Forged pistons 87mm 10.5:1
(Calculated 10.8 CR) with head
Schrick cams 256/264
King race xp bearings
M50 manifold
New S52 OEM valvetrain lifters and all
Head ported and polished
Iwsi “race” chains
ARP crank and rod bolts
New baisans vanos stuff
JRZ 3 way 750/900
Akg engine/trans mount
Poly subframe 75d
Solid aluminum diff bushing
Synchro design works Spherical rear trailing arm bushing
Tuned by Erick (owner)
3.73 diff 2 way drexler
Pf08 race pads
Cusco brides zeta 3
OMP wrc semi dish wheel
RTD shifter and dssr

[@dreamdrivedrift]

You did a great job reviewing these quintessential "peak drivers car" cars. I grew up with E36s and moved into S2000s a few years ago. Even at 7-8/10ths on a public road, the S2000 is a challenging and engaging drive. You're constantly managing the weight and working with the car to negotiate the bumps and cambers. And after you finish driving, you're tired and don't need to drive it again for 2 weeks. At 8/10ths on a public road in the E36, it's a confidence machine but doesn't ask much of you. I still miss it from time to time, especially the sound, refinement, and quality of driver inputs, but the edgy balance and peaky nature of the S2000 still has me hooked.

[@ytsux9259]

My S2K was super raucus and fun. But I tamed it a little bit by upgrading to Bilstein suspension and it handled beautifully without being nearly as tail-happy as before.

[@6mtzhp55]

I wish as I went through E30, E36, E46 and into an AP2V2, that I knew I was experiencing what history would remember as some of the driver's car greats. Still have the S2K with low miles and great condition which makes it much easier to deal with having sold the BMWs. Maybe it's just me, but of all the BMWs, the S2K reminds me most of the E30.

[@lucassegal1242]

Wym by dont need to drive it for again for another 2 weeks?

[@autofigure00]

I love that body kit on the RX-8. The front grill looks sick and very similar to some of the newer mazda concept cars.

[@danielcaldera6075]

I've never seen an RX8 look that good!

[@benedictstancu9571]

That’s why i clicked😂😂

[@Unxpekted]

Agreed, swap a 13B or 20B and that thing will fly

[@drakemadman00]

@@Unxpekted rx8s are 13b, and a brew/20b swap is like 20k 😂

[@MrReallogs]

@@drakemadman00 its a side port 13b he means a proper one thats in the rx7 ;)

[@Arazulu]

You don't have to swap the rx8 because that's too costly. You can just port it; either bridge port or street port.

[@johnconnor2402]

I was shopping for my first car in 2009 and my choices was an RX8, S2000, 350Z, or G35. Drove them all and I liked the RX8 the most and bc it had way more room. I had so much fun with it. I was at a stop light last year when a grandma plowed straight into me and totalled the RX8, I still miss it now.

[@creakid]

Yep, this is what happens when test driving both car side by side on the same test route... Over 2 decades ago, a Mazda/Honda dealer selling these 2 V6 FWD minivans, no one wanted the Mazda van while all Honda vans got sold out. When the RX-8 came out, a Mazda/Nissan dealer is not discounting much on the RX-8 while the Z sitting in the show room already got a dead battery.

[@dylanmccallister1888]

Dude one owner hot start rx8s are super cheap Consistently see them for 5k and under Cosmetically perfect cars usually 60-120k depending on the year if its prefacelift or not. Just know you will spend ~300 bucks and 4 or 5 hours of your time rebuilding the engine Rebuild kit and buy a junkyard renesis so you can build a motor while you drive it

[@zzzgarage2704]

Omg the rx8 frontend looks so good

[@pulpufictione]

Nice group of cars in this head-to-head. The RX-8 GT trim end up a little heavier because of the sunroof, among other things. My Sport (Base model) scaled at 2864 with basically no lightweighting except for a catback and aftermarket wheels. A fresh engine with a lightweight flywheel will liven up the car a lot, probably will feel like 20+ hp. That and the RX-8 has by far the best chassis, I've driven my stiffly sprung RX-8 thousands of miles over shit northeast roads and honestly it's really composed. But all of the cars here with sticky tires have such high limits that there's no way the limits are really consistently reachable on a backroad.

[@nitepatrol1873]

I have to do maintenance on my 8, so this was a good reminder that I have a great car worth owning and taking care of. 🙂

[@PeterPangea]

You definitely do!

[@rightminddrive]

Love it man! Great comparison. For someone who prefers torque and low/mid range grunt, the e36 has won me over. I sold my e92 m3 to get back into one! The fact that I can drive it for hours, I can daily it, and push it so hard all the time, all the while not going *too* fast- parts are cheap- has made ownership a blast.

[@creakid]

Exactly, when comparing E90 with E36 (converted to quick steering rack), I noticed E90's steering feel is nearly as numb as E87's.

[@creakid]

& of course, E92's boring hydraulic steering got even more numb on the V8 version (M3).

[@AlumarsX]

The RX8 will always have my heart

[@vincenttrieu728]

Anyone else see Zygrene’s thumbnails, click on the video, and hit the Like Button before it even starts? Loving the content so far, keep it up!

[@Zygrene]

You're a real one

[@DC5Brandon]

I thought I was the only one who did that 😏

[@claudedottin1312]

It be like that

[@x1tekja]

In the beginning of this video I was sure the S2K was going to be my favorite based on how that thing just ripped! Then the sound of the RX8 and the smooth balance had me second guessing. Then that E36 with such visceral torque, just spectacular! In the end I am left amazed and decidedly confused as to which I like the most. All three are just such great builds and this was such an excellent match up and thoroughly enjoyed watching.

[@verdict1163]

Haven't watch yet but instant like. Have been waiting for the RX-8 impressions for a while. I recently drove one and it felt more top heavy than I was expecting, could have just been that example though. This is gonna be a good video.

[@darksunrise8777]

S2000 would be my choice for pure driving fun, but the E36M in that 4 door MT configuration is an absolute unicorn today. Can't find any comparable, relatively lightweight RWD NA sedans like it anymore. Nice comparison video.

[@richiesworld1]

Not a sedan, but the E87 130i would be comparable.

[@creakid]

@@richiesworld1 I love the slick-top E87's tall driving position, but that hydraulic power steering got even less feel than E84 X1 AWD's.

[@kanaric]

Can find nothing like the E36M? Skyline GTS-T, JZX90/100, Altezza, E30, E46, list goes on and on.

[@darksunrise8777]

@@kanaric You just proved my point lol. None of those cars are being made today.

[@johnpearson492]

I have an e36 M3 as a daily driver, and weekend autocross weapon. It's brilliant. However I've always been intrigued about the RX8 and would love for it to be my first Japanese car.

[@btownballer27]

Rx8s are fun but finicky have to be ready to get greasy or spend money. However, everyone I have ever met who has either owned or driven one wants one again. They're designed chassis first.

[@johnpearson492]

@@btownballer27 Sounds like every BMW I've been involved with. I have a friend with an early RX7 and it doesn't seem too troublesome.

[@btownballer27]

@John Pearson the 8s are more finicky due to the exhaust ports being on the sides of the housings and the side seals not wanting to stay in the rotor. Also to mention if you ever consider buying one get it compression checked and get rid of the Cat. They ruin these cars.

[@pe-peron8441]

@@btownballer27 The seals will stay perfectly in place as long as the cooling system is maintained, lubrication is adequate and the car is driven to the redline fairly frequently once the engine has warmed up. On the other hand, unlike the RX7, there is no risk of detonation. We agree on the cat though

[@kanaric]

RX8 can fit more tire without body mods which can be a big advantage.

[@frankwhite2072]

I've seen that rx8 in forums and on insta, I'm glad I'm finally able to see it in action on KZbin.

[@joeracer302]

I forget the year, maybe 97, but an M3 sedan won its class at Rolex 24. Was cool watching a sedan out there not just racing but winning against all these other sports cars.

[@DonBMW]

Have an E36 M3/4/5 w a lightened flywheel and stage 2 clutch. Great car, lots of fun and has back seats for the kids. Also have an AP1 S2k and that car is on another level. Agreed! Best gearbox ever. Nothing shifts as awesome as an S2K transmission!

[@caszzxs4104]

Awesome video, but you need to drive my Rx8 R3 (S2). I’m not convinced people realize how much of a difference the S1 and S2’s are. Much respect for the S1 though. Thanks for putting in work to create this content for us! 😊

[@PeterPangea]

Let me just say mine isn’t your average S1 LOL

[@caszzxs4104]

@@PeterPangea lol I feel ya! I see what you have done too. But as much as we respect the difference of the AP1 and AP2, there is a a difference in the S1 and S2, down to the chassis 😉. I love ‘em all though so no hate coming from me!

[@thelegend6911]

Still the r3 is different, I know exactly what you mean

[@caszzxs4104]

@@thelegend6911 best kept secret 🤫

[@PeterPangea]

RX-8 owner here! Feel free to ask any Qs :)

[@michaelwakim2198]

Differences between your rx8 and the one in this video? Any improvements or drawbacks to the mods shown?

[@RSDDS996]

@@michaelwakim2198 I think he meant he owns the RX-8 in this video.

[@richardpaik1159]

What bumper and hood is the rx8?

[@PeterPangea]

@@richardpaik1159 it’s the vision bumper from leg motor sport and r magic carbon vented hood

[@jakegarrett8109]

What's with the Anime stickers? How much power did each add? JK, I have an RX-8 as well, so the real question is: What was your favorite mod?

[@josephbidon4333]

The noise from the RX8 exhaust sounds so good! Braaaap!

[@skatetown100]

Great review .. love that RX-8 !!!!.. sounds like a solid stable chassis that I would like .. but the low end grunt of the BMW .. is mostly how I drive ..

[@kanaric]

Always can LS swap the rx8. I see those like that all the time

[@GTFour]

These 3 need taking together to the track for a back to back review and lap time comparison next! 👌

[@ootoriazumi1349]

stripped-interior lightened rx8 all NA would be great on track

[@Xmvw2X]

The S2000 feels like a precision tool, but you sacrifice a lot outside of actually racing. The low rigidity limits it. And the steering feel is remarkably poor. The RX8, at least comparing stock to stock, is a GT car. It is comparatively VERY soft, comfy, and with looooong gears. With it's soft suspension, tall gears, and sort of high weight, it is a little out of place racing. The biggest benefit of the RX8 is that you don't compromise outside of racing. It's a good drivers car, it's comfortable, quiet, and seats 4 actual full sized adults (yeah, really). The RX8 needs to be modded to be tailored for a more pure racing experience. However, it does handle well racing and will neutral out mostly just by disconnecting the front sway bar. The RX8 has a VERY rigid chassis, and it can much better make use of stiffer suspension. The S2000 is a good sports car stock. You don't have to do much to go racing. For the RX8, I think it needs a diet, could really benefit from a close ratio gearbox that feels right for the 10k redline. The RX8 with the ND Miata transmission and a 5.125 final drive would be great (basically 1 through 6 is compressed down into the stock 1 to 4 gearing range which is much more appropriate for the motor). The E36 M3 is a different set. For one, it's one of the better power to weight options on the market. The M3 sedans have historically been so. They're powerhouse machines for their eras. The chassis is...so so. The E36 chassis was never developed well for sport use, not really. They just made it work ok. The E36 and E46 are good cars, but the E36 is a comparatively ancient chassis from the 90s. You're buying a lot into power plant and some chassis effort by BMW. But what's best? Oof. GR86? The reality is these are all pretty dated cars, and for how good the FT86 and GR86 is, these older cars become a much harder buy. The FT86 already had a better chassis, better steering, better braking, better shifting, and better handling, stock, than any of these other cars. It's remarkably good and also a blank canvas for modding with a big aftermarket to support that. The only gripe was the engine power, and the GR86 fixed that. So, why buy one of these older cars? I don't really know. This is my take. I have cash and I've put money down on sports cars a couple times with the ability to buy whatever I wanted for under $30k. My first buy was a RX8. I've autocrossed all of these, even back to back, and I still walk away liking the RX8 best. The second time I bought a sports car, I bought an old Z4 roadster. I've driven everything from a Honda Civic to a Viper, and there's stuff I can like and appreciate. But there's only a few things I really want to own. The RX8 is one. The Z4 is the other. This is over a S2000, over a M3, over a Mustang 5.0, over RX7, over so many other cars. Why? The character of it and what the package holistically gives you. I think that's why I most gravitated to these two. They are the least compromised, most total package sports cars you can get, and they have oodles of character and have that special sauce feel.

[@jinxtacy]

I don't really think Bilsteins are really anything to be ashamed of. I think with some treatment from Fat Cat Motorsports or someone similar who understands suspension then it would be a fine weapon. I feel like if you put a set of Ohlins, JRZ or Penske's without proper clearance and setup then you would still have the same issues. The fact that there are so many Bilstein parts available and tuners make them an excellent monotube to build off of.

[@umaireg6]

All great cars in their own way 👍

[@ricepony33]

It’s super annoying how good a lightly modified e36 is.

[@PeterPangea]

Wouldn’t call this one lightly modified, but it is an awesome car! I’m very jealous of the torque and suspension bits

[@DC5Brandon]

I would love to see you do a comparison of a highly modified Porsche 987 with a twin turbo VS a $50K turbo or N/A sports car like a Mark V Supra, BMW M2, C7, or even a more expensive 911. The turbo kit for the 987 isn't cheap, but it's quite compelling when one could be build for less $$$ than a new high-end sports car.

[@mikejoness2k]

That e36 looked rapid!!! Great review

[@RyuusanFT86]

Oh I know that RX8, chatted with him a few times only. Pretty solid dude!

[@Joke1Time]

I’ve owned an s2000 and a rx8 :) rx8 handled the best but the s2k was my favorite

[@drakemadman00]

Good exhuast, intake (which is hard because Mazda nailed the intake but there are few that are better), tune, and maybe a streetport or bridgeport will free up that 20-30hp on the rx8, but after that there's nothing until boost and/or gslse side housings lol coming from an rx8 owner

[@GooGz]

Used to own a E36 325i , then got into turbo Hondas, even though the M345 is one of my favorite Bmws , I'd still pick the S2000.

[@JimmyCheng]

again awesome video, really showcases these machines in a way that people who have never driven these cars can understand.

[@zcmdzpp127]

S2k, regardless of the application, reliability is a must…

[@rotaryenforcer]

It's worth noting E36 M3's are going to be double the price of an RX-8 in the same condition, and S2000's triple or more. RX-8s are pretty much impossible to beat for the value.

[@z32luvr]

There is a reason for that. You get what you pay for. Reliability costs.

[@beauwulf]

E36 M3s are easily the same price (or more) as the S2000 now for similar mileage + condition, and around 3X that of the RX8.

[@PeterPangea]

@@z32luvr tbh reliability has been basically fine for me for the last 20k miles, but it’s hit or miss

[@rotaryenforcer]

@@beauwulf a quick glance on bringatrailer tells me this is not correct, clean s2000s seem to sell for about 30k-40k ish on average vs 20k-30k for a clean E36 M3, but this is the US market. Frankly I don’t really care, I was just trying to point out that a nice RX-8 *plus* the price of a fresh motor install / rebuild is still significantly cheaper. If no rebuild is needed, even better.

[@z32luvr]

@@rotaryenforcer it’s going to always have issues and be a maintenance nightmare. Not to mention hard to find a competent mechanic to work on it.

[@YohooJesus]

I will wait to get home to fully enjoy this video, this is honestly a question i never thought anyone would try to answer bc ive heard so many good things about all 3 but i love E36s and only did donuts in a rx8 and never drove a S2k thank you for this video!

[@wonbongcho8709]

I own a s2k now used to have a e30, mx5 and s14 kouki best car i ever had in terms of fun and just a mature driving

[@dojoworks7704]

Love my RX8. He's not lying about the handling. They are amazing driving cars.

[@wassimdhaouahira7907]

Hell Yeah Brother

[@ttis3701]

If It was a Saturday morning 8am and I heard the beginning sound clip of this video, I'd think my neighbors were mowing their lawns and using the leaf blower to clean up their driveway at the same time.

[@malcolmn.5222]

🥱🥱🥱

[@Ihavetoomanyvolvos]

That’s how the RX8 should’ve looked from factory. Not a fan of the stock design, but that one looks nice

[@deltacharlieecho4732]

E36 makes for the best spec racing platform, s2000 is the best from the factory; rx8 has the most potential. You can’t compare these as if they’re apple to apple.

[@PeterPangea]

Well the point is that these have all been modded to bring out some of that potential, but yeah I need more tuning (and monies) to get closer to the other two cars suspension and power wise lol

[@deltacharlieecho4732]

@@PeterPangea I’m finishing a 700hp capable e36 build just waiting on a couple more parts. The e36 is the ultimate sleeper platform and is on par with what the fox body was in the 2000s where nobody wanted them. E36 and e46 base model cars are the perfect platforms for spec or sleeper street builds.

[@kimsnightmare]

watching all the rx8 videos , makes me miss the summer and my rx8 XD

[@fatoputso7375]

All 3 cars were considered for my last "sports car" purchase. Loved the s2k but u really needed to get it wound up @ high rpms to wake it up. Wasnt confident w rx8 motor and styling was too early 2k for me.. but handled great i guess. E36 m3 was what i went w. The car does everything so well and its styling is aging amazingly. Fits both child seats in the back, car has become our canyon cruiser every sunday morning. Nice review.

[@marcellcordova7414]

Hows reliability

[@fatoputso7375]

@@marcellcordova7414 not bad. Easy car enough to work on. So much online support and car parts are everywhere.

[@marcellcordova7414]

@@fatoputso7375 thanks man

[@TheCrazzyGuy11]

The s2k and e36 are great cars to mod but I’ve never seen someone actually mod a rx8 lol. That’s what caught my eye

[@easydayez]

19:55 He fell in love all over again lol none of the other cars stood a chance especially with that rpm climb after and the bumps on the road affecting the cars suspension as he goes in for the up shift lol

[@traceyray5509]

I always thought of the Mazda RX8 as a combination of S2000 sportiness with BMW 3-series cabin refinement. Therefore if I have can only have 1 car as a daily and weekend canyon carver it would be the RX8 except that I'd ditched the Kamikaze bodykit. . But if I can have more than one... sure S2000. Why not. But I'd keep it stock and AP2. Drivability and refinement. Time has not been kind to the e36 3-series. It's a no-go period. Video should've replaced that with an e46 BMW candidate instead.

[@PrinceAlvar]

when the youtuber doesn't realize that you have to hold the dsc light for 7 seconds to turn traction control off

[@dcrasta]

I like this review. I've never driven a S2000 but they've always been attractive to me. I've never driven an Rx-8, but I've owned about 6 Rx7s including my beloved TurboII . I am definitely a BMW fan, owning a e90 335i now for several years, I'm a big fan of the 3 series. I have a E36 vert, and a E36 Turbo Ti , and I think the e36 is one of the most driver friendly cars ever made [at least out of Germany]. Salute [liked and subscribed] to your channel and content.

[@VikasShankarathota]

Nice review as always! Would love to see your review of a C5 Corvette, I feel it's a very competent car with a totally different feel and falls in a similar price point to an S2000, NC Miata, older M cars

[@MrReallogs]

well cheapest e36 is 40k, cheapest s2000 is 28k, and the cheapest rx8 is 11.5k here in Australia anyway. i do want an rx8 though :)

[@EthanAdey]

What body kit is on that RX8, it’s how it should have looked from factory.

[@PeterPangea]

It's from LEG Motor Sport in Japan

[@IS300Spartan]

I still wanted to know which one you’d actually pick out of these 3 particular cars!

[@Zygrene]

If I needed a backseat, E36. Otherwise S2000.

[@versus4582]

My JDM Rx8 now weighs 2660 pounds and still has Air Con and full interior. Trust me when i say , its an S2k beater on track and a totally different car than a stock one ... Watch my channel and you will see for your self ... Granted, the JDM Rx8's with cloth interior start their lives at 2888 pounds ... I managed to remove another 220 pounds from that and the car is on a completely different level ... It has nothing to get jealous of from an S2k ....

[@TranceFur]

Interesting that the E36 felt so much stiffer than the S2K, seeing as they both have nearly identical spring rates and the E36 is a fair bit heavier.

[@leecruz2952]

I’m a BMW enthusiast myself but for track S2K all the way.

[@ezpz4659]

the rx8 is most practical, sounds the best, handles the best, is the best.

[@1sinister80]

The 8 or the 2000 you can keep the beemer.

[@JuanJose-zq7ts]

Where did you get that RX8 front end ?

[@PeterPangea]

Most of it was from footwork auto sport

[@craigfleming-dc7fw]

The Rx8 needs the Rx7 twin turbo engine, would be the bomb ,with that extra turbo torque

[@blatz66]

Oh hey another m3/4/5 so rare to see another one.

[@creakid]

BMW with EPS?

[@Drunken_Hamster]

Take the S2000, put a built ITB J35 in it, stick the transmission in the rear like a Vette/Viper, slap it with a 245/275 or 255/285 staggered setup with dialed suspension and brakes, call that a perfect build. MAYBE procharge it if you want more than 400 wheel.

[@rushfactorygarage]

Great video. I’ve been contemplating on adding another car to the stable. S2k or rx8. I already have an evo 9 mr, e30 with m50 swap and my motorcycle does most of my commuting to work. So the next car doesn’t have to be practical at all. The rx8 can still be had for reasonably priced and I won’t feel bad taking it to a drift event and back it into a wall lol and the S2k prices are starting to stagnant but it’s hard to beat that S2k sharpness and Honda reliability and oh mpg’s lol decisions decisions

[@z32luvr]

Prices are rising not stagnating.

[@claudedottin1312]

I been contemplating a RX8 to add. I have EVO X GSR , MR2 sw20 , FC RX7 x3, 3000gt sl, and a built Civic eg coupe. I have a couple others but not counting to the enthusiast list

[@rushfactorygarage]

@@claudedottin1312 rx8 can still be had for a decent price. That’s kinda why I want one. Still fun and way cheaper than an s2000

[@claudedottin1312]

@@rushfactorygarage exactly! All my cars were cheap btw lol. But yeah it’s not like a huge huge decision because price wise and we m trying to have my cars all different according to the uses. RX8 can also be made to look really nice and it’s (practical fun)

[@theregoesmiller389]

I run the same hankook rs4's on my mr2 spyder. AMAZING tire. very predictable / confidence inspiring tire ! i am on a 225/45/15 square setup. would love to see a modded mr2 spyder vs modded rx8 vs modded s2k review.

[@thirteen12]

Haha the subwoofer in the E36, I kind of want to know more about lightweight, easily removable subs for track focused cars.

[@Dirtyz1234]

Building an E46 330ci for track use. My only gripe is the lack of factory LSD in anything but the M3

[@creakid]

My E36 328is got 2.93:1 open differential. A junkyard sold me an LSD (rather inexpensively) with the same ratio, but I found out that it's just an open differential! So I sent it back & they converted it to Torsen & gave it back to me. Is that worth a lot? It does make a “bad-bearing sound” in neutral gear, though. How should I fix it?

[@6mtzhp55]

I decided to just buy an S2000 to replace my 330ci ZHP since I never used the rear seats with a Suby DD. It's a shame BMW nerfed even the ZHP with no limited slip, while Honda didn't even question putting a torsen (and 6 speed) in every S2000.

[@Snoopi25]

I have been looking at trying to get wing extensions like those for my RX8 as well. If anyone can guide me, I would greatly appreciate it, or if you still can get in touch with the RX8 owner.

[@PeterPangea]

Those are the feast power risers. I bought these from another RX-8 on instagram, wanna say they're long out of production. You can machine and design your own though, wouldn't imagine it'd be too difficult.

[@Snoopi25]

@@PeterPangea yea I was looking around, they ended production long ago. There are some alternatives, but they look hideous. I have a shop that said would CAD me some, but because it requires build from scratch, they quoted me like $600

[@DharmaRotary]

S2000 super sport jdm feeling feedback RX8 invincible Senna zone 'ghost'' handling feeling feedback E36 M3 Power/ Muscle superior feeling feedback

[@johnpearson492]

Excellent summary to compare the three.

[@evsales]

There is a CR on BAT going off tomorrow. It will go for over $100,000.00

[@davidrichards5849]

Have you ever driven a spec e46 car? On paper I feel like you might like it, ~2650-2700 lbs fully stripped and like 220ish whp. Feel like BMWs really come alive as track cars once you remove all the extra luxury car fluff lol.

[@irvinsalazar7378]

That's where most of it's weight is. It's a car meant for luxury/sport. Ive only deleted the rear so far and man it made a huge difference.

[@davidrichards5849]

yeah even if you dont go all out you can save a good bit of weight doing the reversible weight saving mods.

[@BTC_Cassidy]

Is this somewhere in Milpitas? Which road Fenton?

[@OVER5TEER]

Looks like Mines to me

[@z32luvr]

S2K will never be rivaled. Period.

[@RearWheelZeal]

No respect for Porsche 986?

[@MrBillDaBear]

3-way in the e36, nice 😏

[@eganchiu8249]

Ayooooooo

[@piero914]

All those mods, and a cracked windshield

[@rocketboi336]

I’ll have you know I finally fixed the windshield! Hahahahaha

[@Greasy]

That's a clean ass 8! The best slow car to drive fast 😁

[@Bmwstephen]

would you prefer a gr86 over an e36 m3? they are pretty much on par in my opinion and is a flip a coin for me. I would say the only thing with the e36 (coupe or sedan) is the actual usable back seats. So it is a more every day car than a gr86.

[@PeterPangea]

GR86 will likely stay working well for longer lol

[@Bmwstephen]

@@PeterPangea really? have you tried servicing a boxer engine?

[@creakid]

@@Bmwstephen Spark plug removal...

[@irvinsalazar7378]

@@PeterPangea Do realize Subaru has had nonstop recalls on engines right?

[@johnpearson492]

I have an e36 M3, my good friend an FRS. Both are great cars, I'd like to drive a new gr86 as it does seem like on paper to be closer to the e36 M3. The M3 has serious torque compared to the older FRS, the FRS in stock form has sharper suspension and steering. The M3s back seats are definitely more usable, though we've taken people in the back of both on 4 plus hour drives.

[@samster978]

before watching, does the s2000 come out best 😛

[@Zygrene]

VTEC always wins. Or does it ...

[@romeokristanvarela3886]

BMW 330ci or ZHP vs GT86 or BRZ gen 1 vs Nissan 350

[@LyykNevaDies]

Nah you need to tell us where you got that RX8 body kit holy shit .

[@PeterPangea]

The kit is from LEG Motor Sport in Japan... I ordered it through Footwork Autosport who distributes their parts here in the States. I will say the bodywork costs as much as another nice RX-8 and can be pretty fragile, but YOLO i guess lol

[@r0xy149]

Hey, does anyone know exactly what the e36 driver has done to the shifter and shifter linkage?

[@745Filipe745]

What are the Wheel/Tire specs on the M3?

[@demingsun4685]

is this the road to Napa?

[@joesfreshaquatics6488]

What rx8 front bumper is that?

[@user-bx4fc4kd4x]

I believe that is from shop called Leg from Hiroshima

[@ikuarden8391]

Hello, i would choose M3 'couse it"s the only race car here, not sporty like. In US U may not know - e36 was winning a lot in DTM Class, super tilted car - You could even buy BMW INTERNATIONAL or Class2. US M3 is simply weakned, it has 245hp only - almost like 3.0 e46. In UE we had M3's 286-321Hp, so even tuned to 260hp - still slower than stock UE. I love Cabrios so s2000 body is cool, RX-8 looks nice but the interior .... - don't like hi reving, low power ratio is much cooler for me - now i drive 330hp r129 SL which may be little bit faster, but now sucha expirience. Great compare!

[@slowcar828]

That m3 sounds like ass

[@_Wstatus_]

don't think the mic picks it up correctly

[@PeterPangea]

@@_Wstatus_ agreed, it sounded pretty cool in person

[@SpeedNessRx7]

What are those wheels on the E36?

[@AnonAnon-qi4ts]

That dead steering on the S2000. Like shaking hands with a corpse. No thanks.

[@R26Roman]

This needs an update now that s2k are costing aeound 25k! Thats evo money 😂

[@PseudoKirby]

Dude, be a little less bias S2k: 2855lbs 237hp 150tq RX8: 2880lbs 237hp 159tq Yet somehow the rx8 is "soo slow"

[@papatonys]

RX8 is slower. Don't believe the HP numbers quoted by Mazda. :)

[@PseudoKirby]

@@papatonys thats not even what im refering to, he exaggerated the weight and the HP for his Favorite car, and the other one he inflated the weight and rounded down the power

[@papatonys]

@@PseudoKirby The guy drives both cars back to back and clearly states his feedback. (which is in line with many others in that the RX8 is let down by it's engine). Why are you so fixated at the numbers? He is as biased as anyone that has driven an S2000, it's a special car for a reason.

[@PseudoKirby]

@@papatonys everyone droves these worn out rx8s that have been abused, come drive my recently rebuilt rx8, it will change your mind

[@PseudoKirby]

@@papatonys also again I am just stating that his tone and phrasing are biased, that is all

[@costa9083]

Leg sport rx8? ❤

[@PeterPangea]

yep

[@costa9083]

@@PeterPangea I just love the styling of that Rx 8? I want to install that kit on my Rx8 but rules in Germany are stupid 😂

[@creakid]

How would you rate the steering feel of Toyota 86's EPS compare to these three cars?

[@PeterPangea]

Which 86? I’ve personally tried the first gen (along with other examples of all the cars in this test) and I’d say the feel is similar if not slightly worse than the rx8.

[@creakid]

@@PeterPangea Thanks, I did drive the Scion FR-S & the 2004 RX-8. Both of them got good enough steering feel -- better than my 2012 Golf 2.5's boring EPS. & I happen to find the ND's power steering too light with insufficient resistance (both the Fiat & Mazda versions). BTW, I loved that 2004 base-model RX-8 with a pampering soft plush ride riding on 16" wheels (while still got immensely high road holding), but it only comes in auto with no stability control. So I called the dealer & found out that both suspension set up share the same dampers, & only the sway bars & springs are different. Therefore an easy swap on the Sport (base stick RX-8) with the headroom-laden slick top. I would still swap the driver seat with the power seat in order to tilt the cushion, while change the passenger seat with an aftermarket lower-back seat (separate head rest) in order not to obstruct the “panoramically wide rear visibility (missing from the Miata hardtop after NB)”. But all together, the RX-8's lack of low-end torque is got to go -- perhaps with electric-motor conversion (rotary breaks down too soon). Therefore, I ended up collecting these two used cars in mint condition: 1) 1999 (last edition E36) 328is stick & converted to Torsen (still with tall gearing) plus the “quick steering rack from a non-M Z3”, & raised the ride height to base-model spec. 2) 2002 (last edition Z3) 3.0 stick with Torsen in order to avoid the M version's “slow steering rack & viscous lsd”. Peculiarly, it's power steering boost is less natural than the early Z3 1.9 version's. Now, I want to raise the ride height & wonder if getting the dampers/springs from a base Ti would work?

[@bluewker]

S2000: attracts high school boys, ultra-ricers, needs a roll bar to hit the track and ultimately makes you overspend for a "clean" car that you'll just ruin yourself. RX8: harder to find, generally can come with rebuilt engine, nobody wants to be the last person holding on to one E36: vanos, sagging glovebox, plastic parts, but probably the most controllable and easy to track car. have owned 2 of the 3, they were all fun and headaches in their own way :)

[@PeterPangea]

Rx8s are fantastic on track! I was easily able to hit lap times close and beat to drivers of “faster” stuff (foRS, 135i, lotus Elise, caymans, etc.) even as a relative novice which speaks to how easy the car is to whip around corners

[@ramensospicy2992]

why did mazda make the gearing on the rx8 so tall 🥲

[@CarsMeetsBikes]

is S2K AP1 engine the ticking time bomb as people say it is?

[@z32luvr]

Not at all. Swapping AP2 retainers will give you peace of mind though.

[@guilhermelima1216]

what is the body kit of rx8?

[@PeterPangea]

It's from LEG Motor Sport in Japan

[@pushslice]

Are the shirts still available? i wish to support the channel!

[@Zygrene]

Absolutely! Please send me an email to [e-mail] with your size

[@markflint2629]

A real driver and a track and the RX-8 would eat them for breakfast

[@slimjim77M]

Zygrene, you got me looking for AP2 trannys for my AP1. Have considered after market rear diffs too. What's the better way to go, anyone?

[@maxymillion7480]

Drexler is supposedly the King, but know a few people with the OS Giken and they rave about it. ATS Carbon hybrid is meant to be excellent too but have heard it requires more maintenance due to the composite discs and they can delaminate with heat.

[@Zygrene]

All I can say from experience is that OS Giken diffs make a ton of noise. AP2 tranny in an AP1 is guaranteed giggles though.

[@z32luvr]

Puddymod makes a diff with a lower final ratio and strengthened.

[@Dan-pq5yz]

Currently have a Daily, S2000 and a Truck and having 3 cars is kinda tough. Curious if a modified 996/997 could fill the hole if I sold my S2000 + Daily.

[@thepassionofthegoose5472]

I wouldn't trade my S2K for a 996.

[@noscopeentertainment]

E46 M3, as someone who’s owned a 996 and an e46 m3. That being said, I currently daily an nd2 Miata RF. And the new BRZ is also a top competitor for that usage.

[@dreamdrivedrift]

Depends what you enjoy about the S2000 and your use case? 996/997 does not have the same front-mid balance that the S2000 has (read: the Porsches have a ton of rear end grip). They also won't survive on track without significant modifications. I wouldn't trade mine for any non-GT modern 911.

[@beauwulf]

Sold my 987 Cayman S, but kept my s2000. There's no comparison.

[@Zygrene]

I just drove a lightly modded 996.2 Carrera. Comparison video with another modified RX-8 coming soon!