On test: Mazda RX-8 40th Anniversary (2008 onwards)
What is it?
This is the 40th Anniversary Limited Edition version of the Mazda’s kookie four-door coupé, the RX-8. No, no – don’t worry: you haven’t slipped into a Star Trek subplot, and been carried 35 years into the future. It is still just five years since the RX-8 made its critically acclaimed debut in 2003.
Rather the ruby anniversary reflects the length of time Mazda has been dabbling in the mysterious art of the Wankel rotary engine. Though in curiously disorganized fashion, Mazda UK has gotten hold of this car a year late; the very first rotary Mazda was 1967′s Cosmos Sport 110S. Never mind.
GALLERY: Mazda RX-8 40th Anniversary Edition
Where does it fit?
At £24,595 the 40th Anniversary costs £1,490 more than the regular 228bhp ‘high-power’ RX-8 (it is not available as a 189bhp car). For the extra money you get a whole host of extra things – notably unique 18-inch alloys and “aerodynamically-proven” rear wing, blue-lensed fog lights (somewhat naff), leather and Alcantara interior, and uprated suspension.
This last includes groovy yellow Bilstein dampers – nice and showy – sportier front springs, and a 15mm ride height drop. With some special badging and those alloys it’s enough to stand out. No optional ruby red paint job, though, just a choice between on-trend pearlescent white, and boring – sorry, subtle – grey mica.
Is it for you?
There is currently quite a selection of mid-£20k+ coupés available: Audi TT, BMW 1-Series and Z4, Nissan 350Z, Mercedes CLC, Porsche Boxster, Alfa Brera – and shortly the new Volkswagen Scirocco as well. But only the RX-8 comes with an extra set of suicide-hinged doors to aid access to the rear.
This isn’t just a gimmick; they genuinely make the backseat more useable – especially helpful for anyone looking to keep a sporty car and a young family together in one happy relationship. The RX-8 is generally regarded as pretty, too (those fog lights excepted), while the unusual engine may appeal to techie types.
What does it do well?
The engine is, after all quite a marvel. Instead of the usual pistons it has twin rotors, and a capacity of just 1,308cc – putting that power output into sharp perspective. The delivery is a uniquely smooth experience, and the 9,000rpm redline comes round amazingly quickly. 0-62mph takes 6.4 seconds, top speed is 146mph.
What the engine doesn’t do is generate much torque (just 155lb ft at 5,500rpm). Fortunately, being so small it is also lightweight, and set behind the front axle line to help weight distribution. The six-speed gearbox is a precision delight, while in any RX-8 it feels like you’re driving something special.
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