MISTAKE? I Bought A Mazda RX8 R3

[@CalvinsCarDiary]

Got some pretty cool ideas in my mind for after lockdowns over. All this spare time has got me thinking too much. If you haven’t hit that subscribe button yet pull your finger out and do it now and while you’re at it give me a follow on insta as well. Here’s a link to save you a bit of time 👇 winstagram.com/CalvinsCarDiary

[@siroberts6860]

Calvin's Car Diary 2021 then 🙄

[@CalvinsCarDiary]

Si Roberts 😂🤣 think I’ll have to consider breaking rules if that’s the case.

[@gc5384]

maybe Christmas 2020

[@kimriley2491]

Yes, you definitely made a mistake there kid. It's about time you got a nice and sexy electric model!

[@ryanperry5869]

For info on rx8s look at car throttles channel as they did an entire series on one from 2004

[@TBIRD0625]

I have an 04' RX8 here in Canada, picked it up with 69,000km on it for 8 grand taxes in, currently has 84,000km on it, I daily drive it year round and it has had zero issues. The biggest problem with these cars are the owners, if it's taken care of and used properly they can be great cars to have, if not, they fall apart. You have to do some quirky things with it but as car enthusiasts I think we all enjoy it. What quirky things you ask? Well you gotta top up the oil every 1-2 weeks, take it to redline every time you drive it, oil changes every 5000km, 2 stroke injection oil in the gas tank every time you fill up, never shut the car off without letting it warm up, turn the ignition on for 5 seconds before starting it, rev it between 2500-3000rpm for 10-15 seconds on startup to burn off unburnt fuel. A really good thing to do for the engine if you can get away with it is to get rid of the catalytic converter which blocks up a hell of a lot of heat. Personally even if I have to move my car out of the driveway or road etc I will go for a 10 minute drive and redline the car even if I only had to move the car 20 feet to begin with. And to me, it's all worth it, especially with an Agency Power exhaust on it, nothing like sounding like a racecar and shooting flames every damn day :)

[@georgewarren5565]

love it how you mention the mileage, it's such an interesting thing to know. shame other car KZbinrs don't mention it

[@vinceroadie1982]

Glad to see you giving some love to the Rotary, i have been an RX8 owner since 2009, still going strong, and still an amazing car to drive and own.

[@davidpriest5253]

Velocity Vinne from the RX8 owners club?

[@ProfessorShroom]

Out of curiosity, have you ever had to have the engine rebuilt?

[@vinceroadie1982]

@@davidpriest5253 It is ;)

[@vinceroadie1982]

@@ProfessorShroom Nope still on my original engine.

[@vinceroadie1982]

@Michael I would recommend premixing your fuel. So some decent 2 Stroke oil mixed with Gas. 150ml of oil to a full tank of petrol so around 60ltrs. You can buy rotary specific premix for around £14 for 1 quart.

[@IStratz]

I have a 2004 RX8 that had an engine go out at 90ish thousand miles. I replaced the engine and got a rebuit one be a decent rotary shop. I'll list a few things that I would highly recommend. 1. At the 80,000 mile mark, replace the spark plugs, spark plug wires, and coil packs. Do this as regular maintenance every 40-50,000 miles. These engines get badly damaged from misfires and pre-ignition much worse, compared to piston engines which is why I would replace them before they fail. (I would also do this with any new RX8 that I just bought, just as a peace of mind unless the owner specifically says they just replaced them.) 2. Use a thicker oil. I would recommend 10w-40 *NON SYNTHETIC*. The 5w-20 Mazda recommends is too thin and most likely better for fuel economy and emissions. If you live in a climate where it never really gets cold, and is common to have outdoor temperatures in the 100+ degrees Fahrenheit, use 20w-50 non synthetic oil. (The reason we don't use synthetic is a few reasons, but the main reason I don't is because I have heard from reputable shops that synthetic oil causes certain seals in the engine to swell, which can cause them to break.) 3. Carbon deposits are like sandpaper to the apex seals inside the engine, which maintain compression. Red-line the car once every other drive, or once a drive. 4. Check your oil levels every other time you fill up for gas. The amount of oil you use depends a lot on how often you were on the accelerator since the oiling system is used according to the throttle position. If you do a lot of highway driving, you will use oil much faster, but this is normal. I use about a quart of oil every 1000-1500 miles. Also change your oil every 4-5000 miles since you cannot use synthetic. 5. If you are planning to use your catalytic converter in your RX8 (these engines hate cats because they get clogged from the oil that they burn and the very high temperature exhaust gases they produce) you cannot premix oil/fuel or you will kill the $1300 dollar catalytic converter real fast. Install a mid-pipe if you would like to pre-mix. 6. For a peace of mind, you can get the engine compression tested at a mazda dealership and basically find out how much life the engine has left in it. Many people recommend doing this before buying any RX8's. Other than all that, just have fun and enjoy the car! If you follow all these steps and nothing seriously fails, it should last you at least 130,000 miles with the R3's. It's very possible for it to last even longer, which to me is a plenty long time for a cool little sports car. :) I absolutely love my RX8.

[@jayespi37]

I have a 2009 R3, this thing is amazing put a smile on face everytime along with my mazdaspeed 3! For all u haters out there " DONT HATE WHAT YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND " 😎

[@DStead2239]

Those that understand rotaries most are the ones that hate them most.. Say Renesis to a proper Rotary enthusiast or builder, here the laughter that ensues 🤣🤣

[@jayespi37]

@@DStead2239 u obviously dont know any real enthusiasts. Ur so call enthusiasts u know probably smoke weed instead😋

[@cordellej]

@@DStead2239 you dont know any rotary enthusiast then

[@manoo422]

....so why do you think rotarys are long since dead and buried...?

[@matthambly1997]

mazda man 09 whats your speed 3 like? considering buying one!

[@charmikeyt1709]

I've owned my 09 RX8 for about 5 years now and I daily drove it for 3 of those 5 years. Great car absolutely love it. It's not without its problems, but what sports car doesn't? The series 2 Rx8's were produced from Model Year 2009-2012. Mazda tried to find a happy balance between reliability and fuel economy (because of the stricter emission standards that eventually led to Mazda canning the Rotary after 2012, or so we thought....) The major difference from the S1 to S2 Renesis engine is that they brought back the middle oil injector from the 13B-REW that was in the 3rd generation RX-7. It provides more oil at apex seals to help slow down wear. There are a bunch of other updates to the engine like the oil metering pump and the way it delivers oil to the engine, but I'm not an expert so I won't try to be :). The car is an absolute joy to drive and anyone who has ever driven one can tell you that it will bring a smile to your face every time. The second you get in the driver seat, its like you can feel the passion and energy the Mazda engineers put into this machine.

[@paulschofield985]

I’ve got a 2004 RX8, still on original engine still going strong.. I get 19 mpg driving local 23 mpg on the motorway.. Love that car..

[@Roginator007]

Rotary Revs are a well known specialist here up north 👍🏻

[@LiamskiLFC]

R3 is a facelifted rx8. Fun cars. Own an early 2004. 78k. Paid 650 for it over 2 years ago. Has never let me down. Maintenance is key with these. Most people aren’t up to the task which is why they all break.

[@jamesjohnson9891]

“U can get them for a 1k , probably won’t work tho “ 😂😂

[@Alexander_l322]

The car Garage you can get them for 5k still won’t work very long if at all

[@zzhughesd]

@@Alexander_l322 ha ha ha exactly my thoughts, ok for 3-4 mths until you go on holiday or turn it off warm

[@Alexander_l322]

dan hug hes I wrote a comment about a guy I saw who pulled into the shell garage and filled it up but spent 15mins turning it over to get it going again lol, he got it going and it sounded sweet as a nut but yea nah I haven’t got time or the energy for the stress of worrying if my car will start first time when I’m in a rush!

[@Stan99]

Got mine for 3k. works perfectly!

[@Kobain222]

@@Stan99 most cars have a spare wheel but the RX8 has a spare bus pass

[@6gwilliams]

The steering wheel is on the wrong side lol. Enjoy mate. I have owned seven rotary cars and have a USA 2008 40th Anniversary Edition RX8. I have over a million miles driven in Mazda rotary cars since 1974 on street and track . Cheers

[@3toedSloth75]

Excellent choice!! I love my R3, had it since new. Lots of things you've asked here but there's some important bits: * R3 uses emops for oil injection - be sure to change oil every 3k mi (not ever 5k). This keeps the injected oil cleaner. You don't have to premix, but it won't hurt to add a little (up to 0.5oz/gal). Synthetics with high flash points are fine, but do your research first. Mazda sells rotary synthetic 5w30, and Idemitsu has 10w30 specifically for rotary. * USE ONLY MAZDA OEM OIL Filters for the R3. It runs at a higher oil pressure and the bypass spring is at a higher rate. If you use a regular filter it will bypass early and your oil won't be filtered. * In the UK check out Rotary Revs, Essex Rotary, and Ryan Rotary Performance. Good thread for getting started with RX-8s: www.rx8club.com/new-member-forum-197/new-potential-owners-start-here-202454 If you haven't seen it Car Throttle did a rebuild of an older 8 in 10 episodes here on YT: kzbin.info/www/bejne/e2SWe5SLo8pnmas

[@V1_JFN]

2 years later and this comment and the link provided was some of the best information I've read. Thanks mate.

[@davidpriest5253]

Nice vid cheers. I had a 10 plate R3 as a daily driver for nearly 5 trouble free years. I was the fourth owner when i picked it up with 23k miles on her (people buy em and dont like the fuel return of 16mpg). Simple to drive, start it, drive it, dont over rev until filly warmed up, and make sure you take it to the beep (9k warning, you can hear it on ghe video) regularly. Designed to use oil, and it doesent burn much. Use a recommended workshop (never Mazda, they dont understand them), for example Benn Dunn at RotaryRevs in Batley who did all my work and are highly thought of. Couple of points. 1) Dont turn it off cold, if it floods you can be in a world of pain. 2) Get a rotary compression test done before parting with your dosh. 3) Best car i ever owned, and i would buy a new one tomorrow if they still made them.

[@Nas4real]

Had a White R3 58 plate, loved it, real head turner at the time. Sold it just before the warranty was due to run out

[@vMaxHeadroom]

Just sold my RX-8 R3 as it had just passed 85K miles but it was a great car! The only issue I had was with one of the oil cooler rads which I replaced with a second hand unit which was so cost effective. They drive great, handle even better and if you look after them will be more than fine and the R3 just looks stunning inside and out!...Oil is the key so regularly check your oil!

[@scoobydooz6575]

Loved my RX8, A bit of care and knowedge this car will put a smile a mile on your lips, It uses a measured amount of oil by design to lubricate the apex tips, adding a little 2 stroke oil to the fuel when filling with fuel helps protect the Apex seals also, These cars are great on a B road driven with enthusiasm, they handle so well, Also a great track day car, @Calvin love your enthusiasm with the RX8 and some other car, stay safe and keep up the good vids

[@williambuxton8223]

£60 pounds , Chantelle will put a smile on your face.

[@dgroberts100]

By using her lips..

[@Techpeak2012]

Question? How much 2 stroke oil are you putting in your tank?

[@scoobydooz6575]

@@Techpeak2012 about 150ml per tank full

[@hiramiah786miah2]

It's not a facelift, the Pz, R3 and the Sprit R were special editions, I bought R3 in Aurora blue mica 2008 And still own it was a real head Turner then and to some degree still is, I've always maintained it and never had any problems with the car, haters will never understand only a true car enthusiast will appreciate driving the R3 9rpm and and that scream and sound from the Rotary engine you can listen to it all day the grip and handling and is second to none, I recently bought a BMW f80 M3 but it doesn't give me the fun factor I get from driving my R3 puts a smile on my face everytime I drive it, Put a Racing Beat exhaust on it you'll love the sound it makes any problems or servicing take it to Aston Essex Rotary, Top guy knows a lot about rotary engines, Enjoy driving

[@gsishaun4940]

All UK facelift RX8s are R3 mate And get that K&N typhoon induction gone .. the worst induction kit you can stick on a RX8 due to the heat soak as the engine bay get very very hot. I've owned 2 for 4 years and for anyone wanting to buy one they're magic cars dont believe what everyone that's never owned one likes to bang on about never had any issues with mine in that time 👌 RX8 specialist include ESSEX ROTARY RYAN ROTARY PERFORMANCE ROTARY REVS they're the top in the country. Dont need to apply accelerator when turning off also that was an RX7 thing 😊 awesome car though mate 👌

[@andyspinks9996]

Haha. You said all the things I was going to say mate. Beat me to it. Love my rx8. Cost me £1730. 2008 model. Has 49k miles on it. Have spent £2000 on bits and pieces since purchase as is really a hobby for me.

[@gsishaun4940]

@@andyspinks9996 great cars if you buy a good one 👌 I wish I had kept mine I've now got an Astra Gsi and it's been in the garage more than it's been out I've only done a couple hundred miles since buying it in December where as with the "unreliable" rx8 was only ever in the garage for an MOT 😂😂👎 I mean my first rx8 first year of ownership I'd done around 20k miles with no problems 👌👌👌

[@andyspinks9996]

@@gsishaun4940 totally bud. Like my rx8. Cool that's it's different. The fact ppl hate it makes me like it even more plus like it as a hobby during Covid19 stuff.

[@velocgee2874]

You do need to rev it if you have to shut off the engine soon after starting and so still cold (4k rpm then switch off with throttle still open.) this was actually specified by Mazda ( in a small booklet that came with the car.)

[@gsishaun4940]

@@velocgee2874 Yes only then when still cold. Anyone who is an actual RX8 owner will wait until it is up to temperature before turning off.

[@stuartnisbet]

Ive had TWO RX8’s. Used to daily drive one when I was about 21 and I just couldn’t afford the fuel as I was getting a out 15mpg from it so I had to let it go after about a year and a half. When I was 30 I got another one as it was the best car I ever had and always missed it. But I got a bad one and the engine blew, even after a rebuild 10,000 miles before. I now drive Mercedes CLS which is meant to be leagues above but nothing compares to the RX8. I would hand on heart say it is the best car I have ever owned, but be prepared to spend money on it, all the bad rumours are true, but they can all be fixed if you throw enough money at it.

[@funnymoneys8328]

Totally honest for a car trader. Fair play to u mate. Ur a top geezer. Once this pandemic is over and our Ramadan finishes gona pay u a visit for my next car. Hope I get to meet u aswell, will bring my son with me cos he absolutely loves ur videos. Stay safe brv

[@ILikeThemFast]

I've been dailying my '09 R3 for 3 years now. I bought it with 109,000 KM and a full warranty for $13,000 CAD. Tbh it has been the best choice I could have done being a car enthusiast. It is like a mini exotic car, revving it out past 9,000 RPM is a thrilling experience. I have driven my son to school everyday, winter & summer, driven across Canada, and autocrossed it. I beat on it hard and finally the engine compression starting to go on chamber 2. Thankfully warranty covered most of the new engine (reman from Mazda) + labour at Mazda dealership. I went in to ownership knowing that this would most likely happening, and thats why I had a warranty. GET A WARRANTY. but such a cool car. Still gets me excited when I drive it!

[@maiaraynel5333]

Thinking of getting one myself, any advice to make sure it stays healthy?!

[@4xbuu]

That plate belongs on a VXR🤣

[@Cringepacket]

Remember before these came out I was dreaming of it being the new daddy-Mazda, dreaming being the predominant word... the RX7 will always be king.

[@brr4328]

Yeah but the rx8 was never supposed to be like the rx7 it was a whole different idea

[@philipjamesparsons]

The RX8 launched at about 23k in the UK and the RX7, about 37k many years previous. So, it was never going to match the RX7.

[@johnpickering2008]

it's everything we want. a rotary that you can get a good considtion one for 3k..... If it was better than the rx7 it would be 10-15kuiiii

[@QuickShiftTV2024]

Love for the rotary! First car review I ever did! Great purchase and video!

[@zzhughesd]

Hated them in trade, love them as a car, wouldnt run one, admire all those that do

[@paulosilverio3586]

Owning a Rotary these days is the same as owning a 2-stroke motorcycle. It is only for true lovers. But the R3 (2008 to 2012) is the RX8 to own, for less knowledgeable people. In this (R3), all defects of the previous RX8 are corrected. If you want to make it last even longer, you just have to remove the catalyst, and mix two-stroke oil into the gasoline. But this detail is not a defect, it is a feature of the Wankel engine. I personally am trying to buy 2 RX8 from 2006.

[@Luk3Vlogs]

Just watching you're video keep up with the good content! I've owned a few rx8's currently still have one! I would recommend Essex rotary there the best in Essex Aston is a top bloke ! First thing you need to do is removed that k&n air filter it's doing nothing but slowing you down and sucking in hot air! Get a standard air box and put in a k&n panel filter and you're all good! Happy brapping!

[@akashsp]

My dad used to have one of these in winning blue. Used to turn heads and I know he really enjoyed driving it but yes you’re spot on saying it’s a bit of a commitment. Every winter, the engine would flood as it would just sit on the drive- AA would have to come out to sort it. We were also told that if you’re only Moving it short distances, to blip the throttle and then switch it off🤷🏽‍♂️ that car had personality!

[@damienspence8381]

Rotary revs have just rebuilt my R3 they done a perfect job 👌🏼

[@Carlos.Rivera]

How much they charged uou?

[@Carlos.Rivera]

How much they charged you?

[@Carlos.Rivera]

How much cost to you?

[@Carlos.Rivera]

Cost?

[@AutopiaUK]

To everyone commenting saying how unreliable rotary engines are need some help. I've had 2 and have never had a problem. The problem was the people that owned them never researched in to how the engines work, so they done these cars no favours. They aren't designed to be driven down the road and shut off, they are bulletproof engines, not grocery getters. It's an engine you start, wait to warm up, drive it, maybe drive it hard to burn off excess fuel ideally close to coming to the end of your journey. They drink only a bit more oil than a high revving engine. If they drink more they are on their way out from being started and stopped a lot while cold. This destroys the engines. The 787B Le Mans race car had the most reliable engine and if Le Mans was 48 hours long it would have been the only car left because of how reliable these engines are. If you can't stand the diet, training, sleep and patience you need when becoming a bodybuilder then don't become one. Same with being a footballer or a doctor or surgeon, know what your getting yourself in to... If you can't care for your racing engine in your car then don't buy one. Don't @ me

[@Benjy9845]

There is something really appealing about that, love how different it is and those seats are awesome!

[@jamesbonomy42]

I love your understatement. Brilliant. You should be a Lawyer. The Mazda lack's Torque .Honestly!.Loved the revving racecar background noise. Your good .

[@JimCretney]

Have a look at Essex Rotary, I don't think they're too far from MK. In the North, we've got Rotary Revs who are great! If you're looking for a fun daily which doesn't require much care, this is not the car for you. Regular servicing is the key to keeping your RX8 healthy, as you said it's definitely a commitment. If anyone else is considering buying one, make sure you get a compression test done on it so know how healthy the engine is. The RX8 forums are a great resource too for anyone who wants to get into these cars with lots of buying advice and maintenance tips :)

[@philipjamesparsons]

Owned mine for about ten years in the UK. Brought dirt cheap for 6k with 17k miles, just three years old. Has been a great car for track days and survived constant thrashing. Was a real bargain at the time and has been a good car. Values have firmed up a bit now and I'm no longer sure these cars are good value. Impractical for daily use (22 mpg), don't like short runs, insane tax, rust badly on the underside and the engine will most probably need rebuilding between 60-90k. Still, do a few track days and feel just how well the car handles and loves to be thrashed.

[@mktm1290]

I had a rx8, rule number one,,,never start it cold, and then turn it off unless it has at least reached the first mark on the temp gauge,,,it will flood! Always carry oil (there is a compartment in the back to store it), I only sold mine because I had it in 03 and when the tax prices changed it just plummeted in value, other than that one of the most fun cars to drive, amazing cabin, Bose sound system, loved having the car!

[@333yardy333]

I saw leftover screw holes where the number plate should be and a custom intake that will probably have a negative effect on a Rotary and thought 😬 I miss my Rx8 have great memories of it...

[@willlong4258]

The power graph looks like a ramp. The more you rev it, the more power it makes, until about 8500-9000, where it flattens. The torque curve is a nice parabola that peaks at 6500 rpm.

[@jameschamberlain6266]

Should get your self on the UK RX8 ownerclub forum you won’t find any other car with such a helpful online support. I’d advise getting an AEM intake instead of the K&N intake. As the K&N collects a lot of hot air from the engine bay. And Regards to turn off turn on. Don’t rev engine. Unless it’s cold and you have to do emergency shut off. (Needle on right hits the middle it’s at operating temp anything less it’s cold) shut off as normal car otherwise you will burn off the oil from the tips which takes lubrication away from the seals that’s if you rev engine and instant shut off. (Try not to rev past 4K when cold either dumps a lot of fuel can risk flooding engine it’s easy procedure to deflood) UK I run 10w40 Semi Symthetic as it’s cold majority of the time and easier to find in majority of shops. Everyone raves about Millers Mineral oil for the rotary. And Also putting 200ml of 2 stroke premix to a full tank of fuel(Most tend to get sohn adapter kits so your not having a nightmare pouring it in). Helps it run a lot cleaner. As other fuel additives for carbon cleaning products tend to be to adhesive on the seals (Eg. Redex will munch up your seals) . A redline a day keeps the rebuilds away :) 7 years ownership of a Mazdaspeed 5 speed RX8 so far. And it’s beat the engine lifespan of two of my other daily’s I’ve had since. BMW 3 series and a old Caddie Van. The Rex still hasn’t missed a beat. But it does have R989 coils from Rotary Revs. Ignition and airflow plays a big part for the rotarys.

[@paulvernon4160]

Specialist wise, rotary revs, Ryan rotary performance, Essex rotary are 3 main specialists, in the uk the R3 was the only spec series 2 (face lift car), although in the states there was a series 2 and an R3 with the R3 being top of the range model. Biggest concern with the Rx8 is low compression, which results in hot start issues and requires a rebuild to resolve.

[@muhammadrajendra6386]

"Nothing mattered, i just kept spending money on it" yeah calvin, thats my problem..

[@thedetailingdoctor5746]

Rotary revs in Bartley is the best in uk watch car throttle video on rx8 they went there and fully rebuilt the engine they talk about all the aspects of failure and how to prevent it

[@TheClassifiedMan]

Think Calvins channel is the only one on KZbin i religiously give a thumbs up every single video👍 always smash it, enjoy your vids mate

[@Kanexx7z]

Rx7 8 owner and you just have to realize it’s not a normal car to just go out and buy. Temperamental doesn’t begin to try an explain what it’s like to live with one. The most amazing test drive I ever had,in any kind of car, was a 1990 white 5spd gxl and it only had 160hp. The feel of going thru the gears was amazing to me. It felt like a tailored suit made just for me-I’ll never forget it. Having said that- you should NEVER NEVER drive your rx without a cellphone that’s charged up and working properly! Kane

[@S2KEVIN]

depends on how much, honestly. Been dissed by alot of people for years, but I have a feeling that people will start liking it in the near future.

[@StaRemixSaad]

My first car! Loved every minute of it!

[@CryptoBond007]

Calvin they do some mental things with those in America, they take out the back window and change all the back and widebody it. If Mazda made them like that out of factory they would of been just as popular as the rx7

[@Shazam-sc9dl]

Only youtuber still killing it in lockdown 🙌

[@BoostyGeoff]

Its deffo not at all a mistake! Just make sure you do the recommended to take care of the engine and you have a wee brappy enjoyment device. Get a sohn kit fitted to it so you dont have to remember to premix just to regularly check oil levels and dont start it up move it a few feet and turn it off again ect ect standard easy to remember rotory stuff and your golden.

[@MrAcoustic09]

Always fancied one of these but the dreaded rotary problems put me off my go to was the mps what a car

[@davidhaygarth4763]

A project then..lol

[@ImNotRXZL]

fucking hell its not that hard to put a full stop or comma

[@7homas0wen]

✦ r x z l agreed. I struggled to read that comment.

[@dariovite7501]

Just put a Jz engine in it

[@BigMattRob]

Dario Vite im going to pretend i didn’t read that comment.

[@paulhickman6641]

Rotary Revs Bradford are the only people I'd recommend. When it comes to RX8's never use a garage that says they'll l do it cheap, especially with the engine. I've had good & bad experiences with so called specialist.

[@rogerbarrett9920]

Like you said there are dedicated shops that know plenty about the rotary engine, so if you're fully aware of what's needed to keep these in fine fettle and the fact that the fuel consumption is high, they are one day going to go back up in value, especially if it's clean and rust free. The RX7's already have a real following in the classic car world. It sounded lovely as you let the revs climb as you went through the gears. Mazda are the only car company that made a good rotary - all credit to them. 😊

[@STOP2NWO]

My bro purchased one as a Track Day car. After 2 seasons engine was finished and 1JZ was transplanted (first twin turbo then single). Curently forged 2JZ od indtalled. Car is transformed from stock form to Porsche Carrera competitor on track. (Rollcage, Proper brakes, Slicks, Suspension, Light wheels, Carbon doors, bucket seats, stripped, titanium single exhaust, fakt floor...). Proper Time attack car but Street legal... Not cheap hobby but gum to overtake 150k Porka or Skyline on Track Day :) I have one relaxing lap on my channel with 1JZ s-turbo and semislick. Thinking of buying R3 są weekend car. Take Care.

[@damienhowell3727]

Them seats look worth the money alone along with that incredible sound from the rotory smh great car quality review. Good job welldone

[@chrisblay]

They are really smart motors and very high revving with fantastic engine/exhaust note. These cars where released in a time when I had to buy boring practical family vehicles. If not, it would have been on my want list. Interestingly, I’m pretty sure that early versions of the rotary engine were called “Wankel” engines, after the original designer.

[@cybr_inactive]

so you call it smart

[@robertmontgomery7158]

Rotary care is frequent oil changes and always let them warm up fully b4 driving

[@paulsoames7980]

Take induction kit off as you lose power because all that's happening is that the engine is sucking in red hot air.put panel filter in.& If people don't understand rotaries they all say their shit but if you know what your doing there's no problem.also fit a sohn adapter that way you feed the engine nice cold 2 stroke oil plus when sohn is fitted it will not use engine oil anymore & you can use synthetic oil

[@alluvz2fish]

I bought an 09 R3 6 months ago... and yes I have REGRETS!!! Only because, it's so hard to find parts or upgrades for it. Companies stopped making parts because they did not have much success with the Series 1 (03-08). The RX8 was NOTHING like the RX7's. I am just trying to make the best of it now that I have it... :(

[@dfnffc]

I've had 2. On it's day and when everything works it's one of the best cars you can ever drive. It handles like Maradona and it's just such a fun car to drive and beautiful looking too. If you can avoid the inevitable hot start issues then just be prepared to stick virtually a litre of oil in every 4-6 weeks. Really wish it had worked properly as I still love it despite the headaches it gave me.

[@Ethan-Entah]

1:48. Probably wasn't this picture that made you think that😅. Buying one at somepoint, fell in love with it playing nfs carbon

[@Dipzee]

Awesome car, i bought mine 3 years ago now. Black, still has 44k miles. Not driven it too much but its so much fun to drive. The r3 just looks and feels great, i spent £6,250, a tad over but i wanted it badly. Cool video!

[@eszenix]

Ryan Rotary, Rotary Revs, Essex Rotary and TPS (The Performance Shop) are the best places to go for rotary cars. Love my RX8 😊

[@Praisestothemosthigh369]

I got an 2008 40th rotary model ..has alot of miles ..use it daily so far maf sensor only issues with it ..love that car

[@chriszzw30]

Good reviewing style, relaxed, good humour and comes across honest. Keep it up! 😊

[@djantraxx86]

they facelifted them 2009 , Own a 2009 myself and it's NOT a Rx8 from the early days , the engine is MAJOR changes AND also the chassis and interior and speakers , also bluetooth and AUX , Also the driveline and gearing , suspension and weight. Rx8 R3 is'nt as cheap as a regular because there is'nt as many. The security of the engine is completly overhauled and better. I dont mean too sound like i hate regular Rx8's because i dont , Really LOVE rotarys but just saying , it's major diffrences between an R3 an regular. nice car btw

[@timbrough5653]

Had a 54 year s ago, it developed a fault that when you stopped and didn't wait 30 mins it wouldn't start. I think it was like you said about when stopping you needed to get rid of the fuel. Some said bad coils but i never found out. Had an old mr2 mark2 before and this and both great fun cars 😉

[@jamieashton2251]

Great video , I bought a £1000 Rx8 yrs ago and never let me down such a fun car and seeing calvins face when he gets it going brings back the memories.... shall I buy another one for fun?

[@tenang_akut_a8429]

Still own one the 6 speeds manual. Still love it so much.

[@jamestatters520]

I had one of these when they first came out! Still think they are good looking cars with a very unique sound. 👌🏽

[@youngstayoung6633]

Good cars and pretty nippy. There not slow by any means. And they are good handling cars. Just the engines etc can be an off put. And you need to.put 2t oil in like a 2 stroke

[@Zeus-kj7nn]

I should've pulled the trigger on one if these years ago. So much car for the money and bespoke looks. The truth is I've owned the most reliable cars on paper, older Honda's, Fords and so on. I've had turbos blow, gearboxes etc. Bottom line is, follow your heart not your head sometimes.. we only live once!! Great vid subscribed 👍 P.S did you Ping that Merc' A class once the camera was down ha ha?! 😉

[@markl568]

Just for your safety give the rear wheels a check over, i remember this car belonging to a previous owner on youtube who smashed the rear hub, forgot which side. If it hasnt been sorted since the it might also have an 18" wheel instead of a 19" on the damaged side. Lovely car though got a 2004 one myself.

[@Jason-hl2wy]

Great video , owned my rx8 for 4 years now still can't get enough of it , the pros always out weight the cons

[@martinsmith577]

My biggest gripe with the 8 is it’s suppose to be the newer version of the 7. Yet with the 7 they got everything right and then brought out the newer model and ruined it. Took away the turbo for one so the performance side of things took a step back. From it’s predecessor that was known for the power you could produce. And it still had the problems a rotary had if not more problems than the older version. When I’m hindsight a newer version should be better than the one before. I feel like with the ex-8 they forgot about the heritage and made an entirety different car to fit in with other every day cars. Instead of keeping it as a high performance car. The newer models have fixed some problems but it’s still a shadow of what an rx should be! And where it came from. There’s plenty of other mazda models for the average drivers needs. So they should of kept the rx line for those of us that buy a car for performance purpose.

[@ElevatedEdwin]

Love the videos! The rx8 and the c63 amg w204 with the 6.2 v8 are two cars I know I shouldn't want because of the horrendous engine reliability but they are both special In their own way that I feel like I need to own both at some point

[@chrisbaxter5041]

I drove one for about 4 months and was doing 150 miles a day all motorway was getting 25mpg Round town 15 ish no issues and had 103k on the clock when I sold it also I was using a litre of oil every 1000 miles which for me was every 7 days lol

[@dannyd7714]

I have a 2010 R3 with 12k miles. Fantastic car.

[@CarObsession]

I would love to an RX-8, but they're such high maintenance, which is why you can pick them up for good money. Many years ago my Dad was looking at getting one, but he decided against it (probably for the best 😅). Still, they're cool cars despite their potential problems. On a side note, you've nicked one of my photos again 😋

[@bigmanmike2010]

Another great video Calvin, I owned an rx8 for a year mega to drive but started having the hot and cold start issues mine had 60k on clock also when the car is sitting in idal the revs can jump up and down and can cut the car out mine was okay on oil but fuel as a daily probs around 300 quid a month lol if anyone gets one decat it u wont look back sound amazing, keep up the great videos Calvin

[@jamesbonomy42]

Sorry to suggest Lawyer. I meant Wordsmith. RESPECT.

[@Adubz84]

Hi Cal. loved this video! Brought back so many memories. I owned an 05' metallic blue RX8 for 3 years. I loved the quirky unique styling of it. the suicide doors and the unique rotary engine. handles like a go cart. The power delivery was smooth and linear. and it did turn a few heads. However, it became hard to justify the running costs for the lack of torque. And the tinkering at the weekend always escalated to a full on repair. just became a chore in the end. but if anyone has £5k ish burning a hole in their pocket it's worth having one. For the fun alone. 😁

[@ryanreid5646]

My brother had one when we were about 19 I was jealous for about 5 minutes until the thing couldn't start and then always ended up in limp home mode.i ended up with a rs 230 megane cant beat a turbo great fun

[@matthewvenet1082]

I used to put a bit of 2 stroke in my rx7 and rev it to 4K then turn it off supposed to prolong the life of the rotor tips. I’d like to own an r3

[@neilmurphy845]

That car sounds cool and the fact it's a mazda makes it even cooler

[@scitec6166]

Sounds awful

[@steveberridge4648]

Wonderful car - superb supple RWD chassis and that noise?! This over a VTEC Honda for twice the money any day every day

[@colegallagher8414]

I work at a Mazda dealership in Leominster, called Leominster motors!

[@GRfourfun]

cole gallagher I’ve worked at Cadburys Marlbrook near there.

[@roggerfrogger2]

I think the tax is £600, it's savage! I am sure that it handles great but it's a fact that they need regular engine rebuilds every 40k or so to keep them going. I think you would be best off getting an Mx5 and putting some of the rebuild money into a turbo or supercharger haha!

[@iamlinxx_]

Warren Court Rotaries do all the work on my RX8 but Essex Rotary is another good company

[@nicky8627]

Used to own a blue r3 loved it!! racing beat exhaust induction kit sounding great, great video 👌👍

[@Matt-go7ss]

As people have said, Rotary Revs are the best for these. You'll still end up with a great handling, very thirsty very highly taxed motor

[@markfarrimond4715]

Hi Calvin, is there any modification you could do to the RX8 (with it having a rotary engine) to improve its performance?

[@chrisbutler2636]

I used to own one mate, several options- Exhausts Cobb remapp Engine port And super charger from petite racing Only do about 15 mpg if your lucky lol Service every 4k and they drink oil. But what a car !!

[@harrisonw2186]

Quite sad that they removed the old rotary seats, the leather ones look so nice

[@ianking43]

Should do a video on the black astra gsi youve got

[@phoebyrose8427]

"Bit like owning a naughty dog". I actually looooooooooooooooled hahaha yes calvvv

[@CalvinsCarDiary]

Phoeby Rose 😂

[@nigelbaldwin752]

Great video. Just for information the displacement of a rotary engine is not comparable to conventional , in similar way that 2 stroke cannot be compared with 4 stroke. Love the presentation of your vids !

[@chrisbutler2636]

Check out car throttle Alex bought one. I used to own one in winning blue. Mpg about 15 to gallon, drink oil,rev high service every 4k mineral oil. Coil packs, plugs,hot starting do your homework look after it great car. I had a e46 m3 after my rx8 and the mazda would leave it on a B road.

[@James-pq1lx]

Hi Calvin, if I want to start buying and selling cars should I buy from auctions or the internet? Thanks!

[@cupra2Jock.]

Calvin could you do the pre facelift scirocco IE 2008-14 model with 207 bhp 2.0tsi. Cheers

[@fetiqe]

If you’re in England, go to Essex rotary

[@stephenhurst6452]

Had 3 in the past. No problem with any. If Gov hadn't jacked tax up so high I would still have one now.