Mazda RX-8 Video Review

This is a Top Gear-style review of a Mazda RX-8
I'm a passionate person, I'm passionate about cars, and after a long history of either excruciatingly boring or terrible cars, last year I bought a car I'm genuinely passionate about: my 2005 Mazda RX-8. Having lusted after it since its arrival in 2004, this truly was a dream car that I can finally call my own.
Inspired by my obsession with Top Gear (the original UK version), my excitement for my car prompted me to make a video review of it.
Many great thanks to Andrew James and Lorie Rogerson for helping me produce the film, and to Fred Sherman Lee for lending us the truck that would serve as a leading car for all the footage!!!!

[@DNGRSDAZ]

I have no option but to shed tears of empathetic joy at this review, if I did not already own one, I would buy another after this review. AMAZING keep up the good work.

[@TheCelphish]

I know you uploaded this video 2 years ago, but I have to say, it was a very professional made video! Liked it alot!

[@GraysonMedical]

I think this may be the best video on youtube. I am getting an rx-8 in two days and this video made me sure that it was the right choice. You gave me hope in its faults. You added the emotional part of driving this wonderous vehicle. And you edited the video so very well. AND, you earned a subscriber. Good job and God bless.

[@runnycoder]

I was looking to get an RX-8 but now because of this video.... I NEED ONE. Awesome video.

[@tobihameed6234]

+Michael Capoccia me too!!!! :) team rx8!!!

[@leolim79]

Rx8 is a very fun, unique and yet practical sports car. It does have its flaws and certainly isn't the car for everyone out there. But, I still feel that one should try to drive and own it at least once in his or her lifetime. Cause it wins your heart and really put a big smile on your face. Now, that is something special.

[@andrewellington4290]

I just bought a black 04 RX8 six speed with 8000 miles about a month ago. This video is 100% accurate. I have never had so much fun driving a car than I do in my 8. Don't let any of the horror stories scare you if you want to buy an RX-8. Be absolutely religious about maintenance, drive it hard, and use a good premix with each tank of gas and you will absolutely love this car. Obviously it takes a certain level of commitment to own this car, but it is extremely rewarding.

[@knick11695]

This is the most incredible RX8 video I have ever seen. Perfectly demonstrates every bond between man and machine

[@Tsunayori27k]

I just bought mine 2005 Rx8 and its amazing!

[@jd3076]

drake shrenizer hows the car so far? is it in the scrapyard right now? lol

[@samrutter100]

iv had my 05 RX8 for about 5 months now, and it is such an amazing car! seriously if you get one, you will never regret it! who cares about the miles per gallon when you get a shit ton of smiles per gallon ;)

[@zencris7]

Take care of that baby!

[@ZekeMagnum]

3 years since you commented, but tell me. did the engine die?

[@christianlundmand7132]

You are a phenomenal director! And a passionate RX-8 owner. You made me feel that passion. Great work Raji!

[@gamingeuphoria7928]

I love that last second detail where he shows the rx8 driving on a track for only a second and cuts to black. It shows where the car truly is meant to be and was designed for... Gives you chills

[@KenHeron]

VERY well done video! I'm picking up my 2011 RX8 this Saturday, and it will be my SECOND one! --I was one of the first 100 in the country to own a 2004. SUCH a complete blast!

[@doubletapproductions]

What an Amazing review! Really inspired me to go get an RX-8!!!

[@Thedarkestknightofgotham]

Just bought one, im 16. Had some doubts but this video changed my view, my favourite video on youtube by far! Thankyou.

[@axelmontano]

+Jake DeLazzari hey dude im thinking of buying one soon too what do you think of it so far? Any complaints even a little?

[@Thedarkestknightofgotham]

none, other than gas but its not to bad itself. love it though

[@bonebeany1]

+Biowire20 Amazingly fun car to drive. As jake siad its not gas friendly but well worth it for sure.

[@54GrantC]

Still the best Rx-8 video on KZbin. I miss mine.

[@krishna22021988]

You might also like the video from Slip angle. "kzbin.info/www/bejne/qHLci5ipmJmag68

[@zowienewton8027]

Excellent video! There can never be too many "review's" on such an awesome car, but yours can stand proudly along side Jeremy's as a wonderful tribute the RX8. My Type-S import from Japan and I applaud you Sir.

[@JordanLChrist]

Coming from someone who has watched every single episode of Top Gear UK and US, this is actually a whole lot better than what they do! Absolutely outstanding video!

[@stephendragone5638]

I have owned an RX8 for many years. If you ever get the chance drive one. It’s a unique and fun experience you won’t get in another vehicle.

[@CreeperArmyKKANDDK]

Hey you still have your rx8? This is hands down the best rx8 review I've seen!

[@sidneylahman7146]

Great video! I'm 14 years now and I'm already looking forward to buy that Beautiful car

[@shaanjayasekera-14]

I own one and simply love this car! Such a balanced drive and such clean power . Btw one amazing review. You made me fall in love with my car again

[@DanBuneaArt]

Wow Raji, as a former owner of a black RX-8, it was such an incredible joy to see your review. It was great, the way it was made, and what it said, and I confirm that everything is true. I lost a great deal of money with my RX-8, but every time I remember the great times I had driving it like a maniac through mountain roads, it still puts a smile on my face.

[@jagat4]

Proud owner of RX8 here, Loved the video, I started to love twist and turn of road after buying this car. My first car and my pride.

[@arborinfelix]

This was one of the best RX8 videos I have seen on KZbin. I know how the smile on the face feels while driving the RX8.

[@krishna22021988]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/qHLci5ipmJmag68

[@adb303]

"I'm sorry if this car does not put a grin on your face, something is wrong with your face!" Haha well made me laugh. Good vid!

[@EverydayDriver]

Hey Raji... Looks like you're in the Salt Lake area - We shoot some of our reviews there and recognized a lot of the roads. Found your video because we got a private owners car from the RX8 forum and used it in our just-posted FRS vs. RX8 vs. S2000 review. Bravo, Well done on your review!

[@gehtdianschasau8372]

Honestly, this is by far the best amateur review i've ever seen on youtube. Raji's got talent. It's pretty much common knowledge, that the RX-8's handling is quite awesome. Imho that epic engine is a big part of all that magic. The renesis or, reather wankels in general, are very small and light for the power output. It can be easily placed low down and far inside the wheelbase. Imagine that engine in an Elise. And after that, try to imagine a reason, why Lotus should have an conventional Otto-engine rather than Dr. Felixes masterpiece.

[@jerryalbert2779]

Thank you for this awesome video... watching this was the final push I needed to cement my decision to buy a RX-8 after having it on my radar the past few months. A couple of weeks after first watching this- I found my baby- a 2004 with only 43,000 miles, grand touring package (moon roof, heated seats, fog lights, ground effects, Bose speakers...just loaded!)- and ab-so-lute-ly clean as hell. Spotless car fax, well maintained, and not a dent, nick, ding- just a few barely noticeable minor scratches. This car looks like it was driven off the showroom floor a year or so ago- it's sick to think it's 11 years old. AND under 8,000 bucks!!!! I did my homework prior to purchase and understand the potential issues/ extra TLC needed- and let me tell anyone considering one... it will be absolutely apparent that it is all worth it the first time you drive your new baby home. Just an absolute joy to drive... I have NEVER been so smitten with a car in all my life. I can just keep going on, and on, and on... but don't take it from me- just go drive one. OK, I guess I do understand that this is a niche car, and while matching perfectly with my wants, tastes, and practicality needs- may not be for everyone. But if you appreciate unique things- if you prefer refinement and smoothness over teeth rattling power- if you like turning heads and having people compliment your car- if you like tearing through s-curves more than going fast in a straight line..... then let me assure you that this car- flaws and all- is phenomenal. Thanks again, Raji!

[@KbaltRX]

Raji I would like to congratulate you for your excellent review. I am an RX8 owner for 7 years now ( the 231hp version in Galaxy Grey) and I always feel and experience the same joy, as the 1st day that I bought it. This car puts a smile on my face when I drive it, or when I just look at it..You have made a review that is able to explain, not only the car's technical specs or pros / cons, but also the emotion behind the wheel. Well done my friend, excellent presentation! Enjoy your RX-8!

[@tls2fast]

Nice review! For a first video review, you did it better than most established video reviewers! Dare I say, better than the clowns on Top Gear USA. They have a fake dynamic, your review was genuine (like Top Gear UK..which is why it is so good)!

[@Saboda53]

Nicely done! I've owned my '05 since new and it runs perfectly today after 10 years and 36+ K miles. After all these years, I still look forward to driving it as if it were a brand new car.

[@bhayes3x]

Jesus your voice just made me wanna buy this car more than I wanted already, haha

[@redcloud1176]

Stop start drills.. Start drill... put key in ignition, press in the clutch...hold in clutch...turn ignition on..count to 10..turn over engine.. do not put your foot on the gas..just turn the key.. Stop drill...put into neutral. .take revs to 2/3 thousand keep there...press in the clutch..hold for 15 secs and keeping the revs between 2/3 thousand for 15 seconds..turn off the key.. this will burn all access fuel and lube up the cylinders..ready for start up..do this everytime..you'll be good :))..

[@kallaballi]

What do you mean by drill? Sorry english isnt my first lamguage.

[@G2Merica]

i was just doing some research on the rx8(I'm looking to buy one) and I think this is one of the best reviews on ANY car that I've seen in a while. The last review I saw where a journalist that was genuinely happy about a car dispite the flaws was Chris Harris on his FF. Great Job!(I'm late but still, a wonderful piece of journalism)

[@GregoryEvansRacing]

I have a black one just like that, except with a spoiler. 101k miles and still going great. You absolutely captured this car. Great job!

[@Yakuuzy85]

I am a proud owner of an Rx-8 since almost 6 years now. I have watched almost everything on YT concerning this car and everything was fine (some videos were better, some were not) but this one, yours... it is simply AMAZING :) I agree with everything you have said here, I can see in your eyes the passion for this car and I simply love it! Owning an Rx-8 is getting placed in a special "drawer" with the label "unique auto-maniacs" - I just love it! I wish everything best for you and your car! :)

[@sotirismcqueen9678]

What an amazing video! Rx8 is one of the most beautiful cars in the world! Well done !

[@vhpublic1]

Raji, you just managed to help me to make my decision: get myself one of this toys. I'm flirting with a beautiful silver one since a year already but everything we hear about is like a kick on the nuts, just take all the excitement away. But I'm one of those who we can call petrolhead, enthusiast, fanatic and all those other adjectives, and most important I like drive and this is exactly made just for it. And your work has such a refinement that rarely can be seen in those reviews. My respect.

[@butty5598]

Best review i have ever seen! i cant take the grin off my face everytime i look at my 8

[@michaelchan8109]

Thanks Raji. You have made me fall in love with my RX8 again. Great review style. Very genuine and eloquent.

[@gambatai]

Hey dude, i bought my 2007 RX8 here in Japan, where i'm living now. As told in many comments, your video is the best i saw, and very accurate about the bad things (oil consumption, possible flooding) and the good things ("this is fun as hell!"). Even if my driving wheel is on the right side, and i had to learn how to use it, i'm so happy everytime i'm driving it. Good video, thanks, and enjoy the rotary engine ^^

[@BeatBoxOriginals]

I'm 20 years old, wanted this car for years and I finally got one 7 months ago. mine is red with red and black interior, 6 speed manual, DVD/GPS all for $9,300. First car, best decision ever made, and I'm keeping the car forever!!! I just love how other college students give me shit about it not being economical! I Don't care because every morning I arrive to school happy and awake with a side of satisfaction!! Hahaha

[@Cyco2k5]

what a perfect review, nice music, well placed engine noise and good narration. Thanks, now I want one too!

[@blakessunglasses]

I looked at this video as more of a top gear clip. It was flawless, the videography was perfect. It went right in line with what top gear looks like!! keep up the good work!!

[@bulldoglegion]

Great review love the way it is your car and you pointed out the flaws. The smile on your face going round the twisty bits is what the 8 is all about.

[@Deathnote0-_-0]

This is a beautiful review. almost made me tear up just thinking the fun I had with my RX8. Thank you, now I will get another one.

[@crapinator2000]

Thanks for the HUGE compliments!!! Obviously I'm a giant Top Gear UK fan as well, and it's hard to feel like I compare, but I WILL take that compliment, thank you!! :D Funny you should mention it. Oil changes was actually part of the video originally, but I decided it slowed things down too much and seemed to focus more on the negatives than the positives. To answer your question, between actual oil changes every 3,000 miles (which I do religiously), I usually have to add a quart once or twice.

[@gordonsoo]

After watching this , I am getting an RX8 right away NOW !!!

[@kennethwest780]

when I first started your video I thought my spotify had randomly started but then I realized that you just have an excellent taste in music.

[@Hazard00001]

Thank YOU for such an awesome review. I loved it. The narration, the music, the montage, the images, everything...... :) And we could actually feel the joy you experienced while driving it! :)

[@newcage2]

Great video. I'm only 17, almost 18 years old, but I've owned a 1994 Ford Escort, 2000 Chrysler LHS, 2011 Mazda3 and a 2004 Mazda RX8 and I have to say Mazda is amazing! The handling is so nice and smooth along with those peppy little engines just makes a great combination.

[@danielwilliams-di3xi]

Finally a really car enthusiast review, at the end of the day all that matters is if your car makes you happy

[@LittleCD]

I really liked this video, lots of great shots :D

[@tdyduch13]

Hey Congrats. I have owned this car 5.5 years and 87k miles and have had no problems. Love it. Still am very excited by thought of driving it. 6spd Phantom blue 2006. I hope you will love it as much as you do now for a long time.

[@toppsballer]

I WANT THIS CAR

[@Tylerthenerdherd]

Been shopping for this car all day and this video just sold me on it. Excellent review man

[@96shox]

having just bought a 08 RX8 40thAE with 25k miles I can say that for the first month i knew this car was special and loved it..but the gas mileage (14mpg at best) and impending engine failure ruins the enjoyment of it.

[@tob3ast4U]

I have one. There is a way to prevent your engine from flooding with out waiting. Park it, put it in neutral, and hold the accel between 3 and 4 on the rpm gauge for around 10 seconds and turn it off while still holding down the accel at the end of the 10 seconds. It works everytime for me.

[@C4SEface]

Owned a 2005 for over 6 years and have only had to replace the sparkplugs. Very fun car to drive everyday, puts me in a good mood after work everytime.

[@ualgun]

Oh man just in time as I was contemplating on buying this car. You did such an amazing job on the review too. Props!

[@ivanmitrovic2347]

This is the best mazda rx8 review ever! Awesome job man....

[@cayman1021]

Hi, I'm from Taiwan and have an used RX-8 too. This review is awesome because you just exactly show how much excitement & fun after buying it. I'd already translated this video with Chinese subtitle, but I don't wanna upload the same video in my channel in order to put my Chinese subtitle, so I would like to ask if you could use my Chinese subtitle and put it in this link so that I can share your video to those friends in Taiwan (or maybe people in China will see as well). Thank you so much! :D

[@crapinator2000]

Thanks Michael :D And it's already great to hear that it had a positive impact on so many!

[@adriannippy]

The BEST review of the RX-8 ! Excellent work !

[@crapinator2000]

I hope 5 years from now, I can still enjoy my RX-8 as much as you still do!! I know after almost 2 years of ownership, I still get excited to drive it and enjoy it :) It's good to love cars!

[@rngaming4187]

That brought a tear to my eye 😢I love my 05 Rx8! Nice video man.

[@davidbailey8905]

My daily driver as well. I feel the same way about my 8 and its great to see an owner review. Every time I drive my car, heck every time I even walk up to it, I can't help but smile. Great review though. It really captured my feelings on the car!

[@crapinator2000]

I hold mine at 6000 for the same amount of time. There have been times though where I've either forgotten or just plain didn't have time... It's an added stress the average driver doesn't want to bother with. Glad you enjoyed it!!

[@jeremyandrebecca]

I used to say words couldn't express the sheer joy I have driving my RX-8... I was wrong. Well done! :-)

[@irieb]

Awesome clip! And you about said it, this car was built for the art and pleasure of driving - I've had mine for about 6 months now, and sadly my range rover has been sitting and neglected for as long as I had my RX8.- it's just so fun to drive! I have upgraded the suspension and tires, throwing in a sound system this week - guess you can say that I am committed. You can not judge this car until you open it up on long windy roads; as for maintenance, just drive it hard and make sure to carry plenty of oil as it does tend to have a thirst for it along with premium petrol. And yes, it will put a smile on your face that will carry well into your day.

[@crapinator2000]

Glad you enjoyed it, and always good to hear about people tracking their 8s!

[@elliyeti73]

I had a RX8 for a number of years and loved it. It looks wonderful outside and inside. It sounded great, went well and is one of the best balanced cars I've driven. All this and it still had a backseat. However, I did eventually get tired of the high fuel consumption, expensive tyres, high insurance and maintenance. Every so often though I find myself thinking, "Maybe I should buy another RX8."

[@Jinlatte]

Thank you for the response. I plan on getting it within the next couple of weeks. I am really excited about it, I hope it is as good as well...everyone says.

[@blythmanstein6969]

Just picked one up in blue today and couldn't be happier

[@WinnipegFilmsHD]

Just got mine yesterday ('04 Silver GT) and this video pretty much describes every bit of it, seriously... Sick video man, I subbed

[@crapinator2000]

Thanks Dan, it's always great to know it's reaching people and giving them some joy :)

[@titanballer30]

im about to get a 2004 RX-8, it barely has over 26k original miles and im so stoked about it!! my friend had one for a long time, got rid of it for a 2014 mustang and said hes regretted it ever since...after his stories I wasnt completely sold on it but after the top gear episode, the daily driver episode, and this PERFECT clip, I know im doing the right thing!!! :D

[@crapinator2000]

EXTREMELY reliable as a daily driver. I've had zero problems with it since getting it 2 years ago.

[@michaelheaton9212]

Amazing review, loved the music, the wording of how you put across the ups and lows of the car. Brilliant. I have a 2007 RX8 on hold for me. Sparkling orange limited edition paintwork for a specific UK mazda dealer

[@chriswoodward7609]

I litterally never come on youtube and leave a comment but absolutely great video and review I thoroughly enjoyed watching this and you pretty much captured everything I feel for my RX8. People who knock these engines clearly have never driven one as they are sublime and even with its faults its one of the most fun cars I have driven and I used to deliver corporate cars for audi so I have driven a lot. Just wish we had roads like that here in the UK!

[@crapinator2000]

thanks Daniel :) I definitely think that it's more engaging to watch someone relate to a car emotionally than it is to find out how the limited slip differential works.

[@Hazard00001]

This is really a tribute to the RX-8 :D I love how this car looks. I don't own one, but I do drive a 2002 Mazda 323 1.6L. And God! It's so much fun to drive! I can only imagine what it's like to drive an RX8. I loved this review. Everything perfect. Keep it up! :)

[@crapinator2000]

Thanks for sharing it Chris! I'm glad you're enjoying it in the land of Top Gear and 5th Gear :)

[@dinolarsson]

This review made me want this car even more! Great video Raji!

[@DannyVCGH]

Dude this is a wicked review!! Best RX8 video on youtube, easily!

[@CernaML]

This is one hell of a review! I too own a 2004 RX8. And although it recently took a shit on me - my fault for being stupid and not doing a proper tune up for a used vehicle on time - I absolutely adore it. Once I get the cat replaced, it's going to be the greatest reunion of my life. :P

[@CalvinPuah]

This man GETS it indeed. Excellent review right up there with the best around. Well done! **proud owner of a 2009 Aurora Blue R3.

[@MattVincent84]

looking at one tomorrow, been saving for so long !

[@crapinator2000]

Thanks so much Victor! It's really encouraging to hear that my passion for cars is shining through :) I'm that way about many cars, but I can (currently) only afford one, and my friends all think I'm crazy anyway, which means THEY don't have cool cars I could beg to drive for a similar video hahaha. You'll love the RX-8 though. Silver is a great color! I don't know what the RX-8 market looks like now, but when I was shopping the warranties had just run out so all my options were pretty cheap :)

[@fiestaboy089]

Wow, really impressive Video and a really, really beautiful Car!!! Top!

[@gzee9]

Need to get rich, to buy and drive RX8! And I will!

[@WhiteTigerRevenge]

You don't need to be rich just meet the right person =) I hope you get the car one day its bad ass

[@gzee9]

WhiteTigerRevenge Thanks =))

[@WhiteTigerRevenge]

Gints Here is a pic of interior I'm not handsome just average but I will admit this car did help me get some "love" ;) post.craigslist.org/imagepreview/00A0A_gm54wdyUzNq_600x450.jpg

[@gzee9]

WhiteTigerRevenge Sweet! Looks great! =))

[@gzee9]

***** I know, but I don't have 6 000 ... yet ;D

[@adriannippy]

This is the BEST review ever.

[@crapinator2000]

Thanks!!! I'm still blown away by the response on this one and it's very encouraging :)

[@crapinator2000]

Always good to see more RX-8s on the road! :D You won't regret getting one :)

[@vMaxHeadroom]

I'm on my 2nd RX8, just over a year ago I picked up my 2010 RX8 R3 and it is even better. Just love the way they handle and the engine is near perfection..revving to the beep at 9000 revs is just awesome...Yes they do have problems, but if you pick up a good well maintained and serviced RX8, you cannot go wrong for the money. Just always keep an eye on the oil level (always have 5 litre's of non synthetic in the trunk) and as to flooding, luckily I have never had that problem...Great Video..

[@user-dp9go8do9u]

It's Great to hear that you have an RX-8, and you're absolutely correct on how it is right on spot; although there's no such thing as a well-serviced RX-8 unless the owner is an expert. I heard semi-synthetic 10-40W was ok but synthetic will blow your engine. Where can you find a non-R3 over the 10k? I would love to purchase one.

[@vMaxHeadroom]

@@user-dp9go8do9u Sorry I completely missed your reply from a year ago....I still have my RX8 R3 and it still runs brilliantly...In the UK you can pick up a decent Mazda RX8 R3 for around £6000 to £7000 British Pounds with around 50K miles....

[@marcu5aurel1us28]

Loved this video, sold my '04 RX8 for an Evo X and I still am regretting it. Going to get an R3 model soon. I love RX8's a true drivers machine!

[@crapinator2000]

Not my first car, but by far and away my favorite of anything I've ever owned and honestly, a dream car I'd wanted since it came out in 2004 :)

[@LurkerDanny]

You can't help but love this car. Mine is currently being shipped. My body is ready. :)

[@crapinator2000]

thanks man! :D Always love to see other RX-8s on the road. There aren't many, so you won't be waving hello too often, but hey, that makes us a slightly rare breed of car owners :)

[@sunnyGsss]

wow the quality of this video review was defiantly up with Top gear reviews! AND you just inspired me in buying an rx8 (one day lol).

[@crapinator2000]

That's true. I'll admit that when I made the review, although I heard that newer models no longer suffered from the flooding (although I then read that the issue hadn't gone away), I hadn't done a ton of research on the matter beyond what I already knew. I was just aware of it and treated the car accordingly. But David is right. The issues don't matter. Bringing up a massive issue like flooding just makes for a better show ;)