The Features and Options of the Mazda RX 8

The North American International Auto Show back in the year 2001 served as the avenue and channel for the Mazda Motor Corporation to show off and introduce to the public one of the vehicles that showed much potential and delivered greatly. This vehicle is the Mazda RX 8. During its introduction that year, it held a 250 PS JIS RENESIS engine that could produce some 247 units of horsepower at 8500 rpm. This engine won the International Engine of the Year award and the Best New Engine award in 2003.

The Mazda RX 8 was made available in two variants. These variants are the 197-horsepower base model that held an automatic transmission system, and the 238-horsepower performance model with a six speed manual transmission system. Of course, there are differences between these two trim levels. The Mazda RX 8 with the automatic transmission system holds standard features like air conditioning, sixteen inch wheels, power windows, power locks, and power mirrors. As per the trim level with the manual transmission system, this vehicle has the same features as per the other one however, it has added features like a limited slip differential, a sport tuned suspension, and 18 inch wheels and tires.

Mazda has designed and manufactured the Mazda RX 8 to be a vehicle that could be upgraded. And the company has made sure that there are packages available for those interested in sprucing up their Mazda RX 8 vehicles. One package is the Sport package. This gives the vehicle additional xenon headlights, a stability and traction control system, fog lights, a limited slip differential, larger brakes, a retuned suspension, and eighteen inch wheels and tires. There also is the Touring package that has features like the Sport package but adds several more features like a sunroof, a Bose audio system, a HomeLink system, and auto dimming mirrors. The last package is the Grand Touring package that is considered to be a combination of the previously mentioned two packages. This package is considered to be top of the line and has additional equipment and features for the Mazda RX 8 like a six way power adjustable and heated driver’s seat, leather upholstery, heated side mirrors, a navigation system, and an in-dash six disc CD changer.

By Kimberly Meyer

Upgraded Mazda Rx-8, for the World to Experience

Mazda has announced that its four-door sports car- RX-8 is now accepting orders through Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealers located in Japan. According to Mazda, sales transactions will commence on said state in mid-October this year.

Mazda RX-8 has been launched to the automotive world in April 2003. Since then, the company is receiving positive feedback from the customers. In view of giving better service and comfort to Mazda cars enthusiasts, an upgrade was made to said car model. The new version of Mazda RX-8 comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission to replace the former 4-speed slushbox.

Upgraded version of Mazda RX-8 assures the delivery of smooth acceleration plus improved noise reduction during high speeds. Aside from that, the 6-port design of its engine, which is 2-ports more that its previous model, augments intake efficiency.

Further, Mazda RX-8 has also added the all-new Active Adapt Shift (AAS) control which improves the pleasure of driving sports car. AAS is responsible for optimizing transmission shift points based on driver input using data from various sensors and vehicle handling. Moreover, AAS contribute to a more relaxing or more rugged driving depending on the driver's preference.

The new cog swapper is available in the base RX-8 and Type E models. Nonetheless, it is not available in Type S models with a 6-speed manual. The powerful 6-port rotary engine is incorporated in the 6-speed AT RX-8.

Mazda RX-8 Type S and Type E models can be ordered with a Sand Beige Leather Package. Said package complements the upholstery and trim of Mazda RX-8. On the exterior, 2 new body colors are introduced - the stark blue Stormy Blue Mica and radiant white Crystal White Pearl Mica. These colors are said to boost the sporty pedigree, identity and quality associated with Mazda RX-8 parts and vehicles.

Mazda RX-8 upgrade paved way for an enhanced sports car performance as well as overall quality. This car is now ready for the world to possess and enjoy.

Author: Kimberly Meyer

Mazda RX8 Horsepower Controversy

Since its launch, the Mazda RX8 has been the subject of close scrutiny by enthusiasts. The high level of attention is not only due to the car’s admirable driving dynamics but, in part to the early reports of below-than-expected performance. To be more specific: wheel horsepower measured on several chassis dynamometer runs resulted in values well below the expected 17%~20% drivetrain parasitic losses. And quarter mile runs of anywhere between 0.5 and 1.5 seconds off of those produced by magazines on allegedly pre-production vehicles.

In connection with the RX8’s horsepower rating: the original marketing material from Mazda North America (MNAO) advertised the 6 speed manual transmission RX8 at 247hp @ 8,500rpm. Assuming parasitic drivetrain loses between 17%-20% –common for modern rear wheel drive vehicles, a stock RX8 should measure between 205~197 horsepower at the rear wheels (rwhp) –depending on elevation, barometric pressure, temperature and correction factors applied. Instead, a stock RX8 chassis dyno run shows results ranging anywhere from mid-high ~160 to ~185rwhp. Such readings would represent parasitic drivetrain loses in excess of 25%. To say that, it is unacceptable to experience such a high level of loss through the drivetrain of a “sports car” with a carbon fiber drive shaft –amongst other things- is an understatement.

To further consolidate doubts about the actual power output of the new Renesis, several owners were unable to reproduce mid-low 14 second quarter mile passes -as seen published by well known U.S. car magazines. Low trap speeds were another hint towards the apparent lack of power output.

Shortly after, several debates on online enthusiast forums and discussion boards turned into heated arguments as to what was causing such poor "straight line performance." Many former Miata owners remembered a previous "snafu" in Mazda's history, when the manufacturer admittedly overstated the horsepower figures of their redesigned Mazda Miata.

After a few months, MNAO came forward and explained that they had misrepresented the Renesis' power output. The revised figure was now 238hp @ 8,500rpm; however, according to MNAO, this revision did not change the previously achieved track performance results.

Speculations about the reasons behind the sudden lack of power output were many. However, there are currently two schools of thought:


The first one supports the idea that the RX-8's engine management unit (ECU), in conjunction with the many "nanny" devices -such as ABS & TCS- do not allow to obtain accurate readings from a chassis dynamometer. To simplify, when the car is run on a chassis dyno, only the driven wheels are turning. The RX-8's ECU would detect an abnormal driving situation and retard timing and apply other safety measures to preserve either the "driver" or the "engine" -or both- from damage (read: skidding situation, or a car going out of the road.)
The second one believes that MNAO was forced to re-engineer the software that runs the engine management even before the first batch of RX-8's reached U.S. shores, due to upcoming Federal emissions regulations. I have read of one in particular, which requires catalytic converter lifespan of ~100,000 miles. The enemy number one of catalytic converters on any vehicle is heat (and heat is the number one attribute of rotary engine's exhaust gases.)

MNAO offered two options to those who had pre-ordered an RX-8, or had purchased no late than September 2003:


They would buy back the vehicle, no questions asked.
They would offer FREE Scheduled Maintenance for the life of the warranty, plus a 500 dollar "gift card" to those who opted to keep the car.

I was among those who opted to keep their RX-8. After all, the driving experience had not changed since test driving the vehicle prior to purchasing it. Since August 2003 I have clocked well over 20,000 miles -as of 1/18/2005- and I have but one ounce of regret about my decision. If you'd like to read more about owners' opinions, visit this thread @ RX8Club.com

There have been a number of ECU "updates" released during the past 2 years. To the best of my knowledge, all early samples of '04 RX-8s, came from port with level "J" of engine management software. Since then, we have escalated all the way through the alphabet to "M" -which was released on a TSB campaign by Mazda North America (MSP04) in order to have ALL vehicles taken in for Service @ Authorized Dealers flashed to "M" calibration.

ON THE ROAD MAZDA RX-8; Amazing, all-round Wankel winner

THERE IS no other car quite like the Mazda RX-8. It has the singular body style to go with its singular engine, and it brings a whole new slant to the notion of a sporty GT coupe.

Its Audi arch-rival is a four-seater, but only just. The new Nissan 350Z and Chrysler Crossfire do not even attempt that feat. In the Mazda, though, we find not just a pair of habitable rear chairs but also dedicated doors through which to reach them. Mazda calls them "freestyle" doors; they are short and hinged on their rear edges, and have no pillar ahead of them against which to close.

Instead, they latch at the top and bottom of their front edges, to form the "pillars" against which the long front doors then shut. It is an inspired piece of packaging, but another piece of RX-8 is arguably even more inspired: its rotary engine.

This smooth-spinning, piston-less engine design, invented by German engineer Felix Wankel, was first used in an NSU sports car. It gained equal adulation and notoriety powering NSU's fabulous but flawed Ro80 saloon of 1967, a futuristic car whose warranty claims sunk its maker, but Mazda, which has made rotary-engined cars since 1967's Cosmo Sport 110S, rendered it reliable.

But Mazda could not solve the fuel thirst and noxious emissions, which is why the RX-7, descendant of a sports coupe line begun in the 1970s, was denied to Europe after 1997 although buyers on the Japanese home market could purchase one until last year.

Now, the RX-8's new "RENESIS" (Rotary Engine Genesis) engine has fixed the emissions and economy issues well enough to satisfy EC pollution police, and we can again enjoy an engine with less vibration than any other internal- combustion unit. Its two convex- triangular rotors sweep chambers with 1,308cc total volume, but because of the way the engine works this equates to 2,616cc of normal motor.

You can sense the difference as soon as you start it. The sound is halfway between a regular straight-six and a two-stroke engine without the pops and bangs. This Mazda comes with a choice of power outputs, the regular 192bhp matched to a five-speed gearbox (pounds 20,000) and the Hi-Power with 231bhp, xenon headlights with washers, aluminium pedals and, crucially, a six-speed gearbox. It costs an extra pounds 2,000, and is worth every penny.

I drove the 192bhp version first. It looks just like the more powerful RX-8 apart from the lack of headlamp washers, with front wheel arches so bold and a bonnet so tapered it almost seems to have the separate front wings of a pre-war sports car. And then there are the engine-rotor motifs, on the lower front air intake, the rear foglight, the holes in the headrests and on the gearlever. They are there to remind you; apparently, many American RX-7 owners did not even know their cars had rotary engines.

First, the downsides. The perforated sunvisors do not shield the sun well. The accelerator response can be snatchy, there is engine surge in traffic and occasionally the transmission clonks. Then, when you are out on a fast, open road you find the engine runs out of puff on hills so you have to downshift and rev it to oblivion.

But, on the bends, the RX-8 is total joy. The steering's response is instant and precise, a true mechanical connection to the front wheels without the initial uncertainty found in the Mazda's key rivals. The front wheels bite cleanly into the road, and you can power out of corners with that balanced, slingshot feeling only a powerful rear-wheel drive car can give. It also feels solid and well- made, so the firm suspension does not result in a turbulent ride. But should it not feel a little faster?

It should, which is why the Hi-Power is the RX-8 to have. The engine revs to crazy heights (well past 8,000rpm) and that extra gear exploits this broader rev-range. It does not matter that the engine speeds are higher because it is so smooth and musical, and the engine is never caught napping because there is always a suitable gear to keep it interested. I have not driven a more beguiling engine all year.

In every major way, this is the best of the new breed of sporty coupes. The driver of a grey-import RX-7, who followed me for miles before passing with a thumbs-up, thought so too.

Model: Mazda RX-8 Hi-Power;

Price: pounds 22,000 (on sale October);

Engine: 1,308cc rotary, two rotors, no valves, 231bhp at 8,200rpm;

Transmission: Six-speed gearbox, rear-wheel drive;

Performance: 146mph, 0-60 in 6.4sec, 24.8mpg (official average);

CO2: 284g/km.

Mazda Hits Home Run With RX-8 Styling, Price Point; - New Rotary-Powered RX-8 Is a Sports Car Like No Other -

Mazda hit the sweet spot when it debuted the all-new, rotary-powered RX-8 sports car in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. With an athletically sculpted exterior and one-of-a-kind rotary engine, the Mazda RX-8 is priced from $25,180 with a 210-horsepower engine and four-speed automatic transmission. Equipped with a 250-horsepower engine, six-speed manual transmission and 18-inch wheels and tires, the RX-8 is priced from $26,680. It is propelled by the all-new 13B RENESIS rotary engine and is the latest in a three-decade-long line of Mazda rotary-powered vehicles.

Mazda continues to pioneer cutting-edge styling with the RX-8's unique freestyle four-door design, effectively demonstrating that a true sports car does not need to sacrifice space or convenience. With enough passenger room for four full-size adults and enough trunk space to fit luggage for a weekend or two full-size golf bags, soulful driving is no longer solely for the driver.

Both automatic and manual transmission cars come equipped with power windows, mirrors and door locks, cruise control and an AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers. To make ordering easy, both the automatic and manual are offered in four trim packages: a Base Model, Sport Package, Touring Package and Grand Touring Package. Priced from $1,100 for the manual transmission Sport Package to $4,600 for the automatic Grand Touring Package, they include accoutrements like Xenon headlights, Dynamic Stability Control with traction control, a BOSE(R) audio system, heated seats and leather trimmed upholstery.

The RX-8 delivers unprecedented sports car driving pleasure with the RENESIS rotary engine offering smooth, immediate power. Double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension, complemented by electric power-assisted steering, yields razor sharp handling.

In addition to being the most revolutionary and cutting-edge sports car, the RX-8 is also one of the safest with standard features like ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution, front- and seat-mounted airbags as well as side air curtains. Mazda also incorporated high-strength steel construction for the side paneling and a special door-latch system in the freestyle door openings to create a solid exterior shell. The RX-8 is truly a sports car like no other at a value like no other.

The Mazda RX-8 comes with a four-year roadside assistance program. With a call to a toll-free number, RX-8 owners can access roadside assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year throughout the United States and Canada. For all 2003 Mazda vehicles, the company will provide a free loaner car in the event a warrantable condition requires alternative transportation.

The RX-8 is covered by a comprehensive four-year/50,000-mile warranty that covers every part on the vehicle except those subject to normal wear. In addition, the RX-8 is covered by a five-year/unlimited-mileage corrosion warranty.

Mazda North American Operations is responsible for the sales and marketing, customer parts and services support of Mazda vehicles in the United States.

Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., MNAO has more than 700 dealerships nationwide.

MAZDA RX-8: THE ROTARY REVOLUTION ROLLS ON

High-powered, lightweight and perfectly balanced for nimble handling and supreme control, the Mazda RX-8 is unlike any other sports car in the world. From the industry’s only rotary engine to the innovative free-style doors, the RX-8 is a sports car like no other.

The 2007 model-year edition continues to push the parameters of the sports car segment, this year with only minor updates. New for 2007, the Grand Touring model offers available Sand leather-trimmed seats, while the Touring and the Grand Touring models add a standard 6-disc CD changer. Two new exterior colors are available on all 2007 RX-8 models – Crystal White Pearl and Stormy Blue Mica.

“Since its creation, the RX-8 has continued to win rave reviews from the automotive press,” said Tetsu Nakazawa, RX-8 vehicle line manager. “The RX-8 is a sports car built for the real world; ideal for zooming around a track, but equally suitable for taking the kids to soccer practice. It is a true sports car that can pull double duty."

The 2007 Mazda RX-8 is available as either a 232-horsepower model fitted with a six-speed manual transmission, or a 212-horsepower model fitted with a six-speed automatic with steering- wheel-mounted paddle shifters for a Formula 1-style driving experience (the change in

horsepower ratings from 2006 is due to the new SAE rating standards). Both automatic and manual transmission cars come equipped with power windows, mirrors and door locks, cruise control and an AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers.

RENESIS ROTARY ENGINE

The lifeline of this powerfully agile sports car rests underneath the hood thanks to its advanced RENESIS ( Rotary Engine ge nesis – or rebirth of the rotary engine) engine. The Mazda RX-8 remains the only mass produced rotary-powered passenger car in the world.

By turning a triangular rotor in a cocoon-shaped combustion chamber, the RX-8’s rotary engine efficiently performs the four processes of intake, compression, combustion and exhaust. The RENESIS engine is remarkably smooth and high revving — all the way to 9,000 rpm (7,500 rpm on Sport A/T–equipped models) — and offers a smaller engine footprint than traditional internal combustion engines (some 60 percent smaller and lighter than a comparably powered V-6, and 40 percent smaller and lighter than a four-cylinder). In fact, the packaging and styling that define the RX-8 would not have been possible had Mazda engineers chosen a conventional piston engine.

Improving upon 40 years of rotary designs, the RENESIS engine features side intake and exhaust ports with nearly 30 percent more intake area and twice as much exhaust area than its predecessors. The efficiencies gained through larger intake and exhaust ports exclude the need for forced induction.

The RX-8’s normally aspirated 1.3-liter engine might appear diminutive to the untrained eye when compared to large-displacement V-8s or heavyweight V-10s or

V-12s. However, through the incredible efficiencies of a rotary powerplant, an advanced three-stage intake system and an electronic throttle, the RENESIS engine delivers smooth, linear power on a grand scale. The 2007 RX-8 does not sacrifice emissions for power, though. Through improvements to the

port design, overlap between the intake and exhaust ports has been eliminated, significantly reducing exhaust emissions, improving fuel economy and allowing the car to meet the strict Tier2 Bin 5 Federal emissions classification. The effort made by Mazda engineers to improve emissions is a prime example of the concern for environmental impact maintained throughout the development process.

By placing the powerplant low and far back in the engine bay, in what Mazda calls an advanced front-midship layout, the center of gravity is lowered, which in turn improves vehicle balance. In addition, the fuel tank is placed ahead of the rear axle, and all seating is within the wheelbase and track of the car. Combined, these factors contribute to a perfect 50/50 vehicle weight distribution, low yaw-inertia movement and superb handling characteristics. With such excellent balance, it is little wonder the RX-8 feels right at home on the twists and turns of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, negotiating a tight freeway onramp or in stop-and-go traffic.

A RACE CAR AT HEART

The RX-8’s demeanor on the track is not overlooked by the motorsports community. The same RENESIS engine found in production RX-8s is used in the professional Formula Mazda series, a popular open-wheel racing series run on the nation’s most demanding race tracks. Formula Mazda is widely regarded as a training ground for developing drivers looking to build a career in motorsports. The fact that the series uses a showroom-stock, non-modified RENESIS engine is a testament to the power, reliability and light-weight of the RX-8 powerplant.

The RX-8 also campaigns in the Grand American Road Racing Association’s Grand Am Cup Street Tuner (ST) division. The ST division consists of production cars driven straight from the showroom to the race track with limited racing modification. Here, the superb handling characteristics and near-bulletproof RENESIS engine already have taken the RX-8 to victory circle many times, including the 2005 drivers’ and manufacturers’ championships, and all indications point to many happy returns.

SUSPENSION AND STEERING

The RX-8 uses an aluminum double-wishbone front suspension, reducing unsprung weight over the use of steel components. By mounting the upper and lower arms on a highly rigid sub-frame, the long arms ensure linear alignment changes throughout the jounce and rebound of the front wheels. All wheels receive mono-tube gas-filled shock absorbers designed with large-diameter internal pistons and valving, which offer excellent road feedback and a smooth ride.

An electric rack-and-pinion power-steering system transmits just the right amount of road information back to the driver. Mazda engineers have chosen to pursue their own path by using an electric motor for steering assistance rather than a conventional power-steering pump. The electric motor provides additional assistance at low speeds to ease parking and reduces steering assistance at higher speeds to provide greater road feel, responsiveness and feedback. And, in keeping with the rest of the development on RX-8, it is far lighter and easier to package than a conventional power-steering rack.

PRACTICAL STYLING

The RX-8’s unique “freestyle” four-door design is proof that a true sports car does not need to sacrifice space or convenience for performance. The advanced design of the rear-hinged rear doors, provides a large door opening, allowing adult-sized passengers to easily enter and exit the vehicle. This design is also advantageous when securing a baby or a small child in the back seat. With a spacious rear seat area providing ample passenger room for four full-size adults, and enough trunk space for a weekend’s worth of luggage, this sports car proves its versatility.

Taut muscular lines give RX-8 the liberating look of an athlete in motion. The muscular styling maintains classic sports car proportions while adding a Zoom-Zoom edge that is unmistakably Mazda. Integrated throughout the exterior is the unique triangular rotor design, which clearly can be seen in the front fascia, head lamps, hood and rear bumper valence.

The RX-8’s exterior styling presents a genuine sports car form, while the interior boasts a comfortable and intelligently designed cabin. An extremely low cabin floor allows the seats to be mounted low in the chassis, which, along with a low instrument cluster and hood, enhance driver visibility. Mazda designers concentrated on the shape of the front seat backs and the rear seat cushions to ensure adequate rear-seat knee room. Front seat slide-rails are positioned to allow maximum leg room for rear-seat passengers.

The rotary design element is incorporated through the interior of the RX-8 in creative ways, appearing in the seats, center console, shift knob and emergency brake. The stylish cabin also evokes a sense of luxury and high-end quality. Mazda’s design team examined every aspect and component of the interior and has created an elegant, driver-centric atmosphere. Through the use of advanced ergonomic research, Mazda engineers established improper seating posture to be a cause of driver fatigue and built in optimum support in the front seats to help offset discomfort. In addition, the soft blue lighting used in the RX-8’s instrument cluster was found to reduce eye fatigue and strain.

SUPERIOR SAFETY

When designing the RX-8, safety was given as much of a priority as was performance. For Mazda, the safety process incorporates both accident avoidance and accident protection. In effect, this approach to safety means the RX-8 can help the driver avoid various dangers and protect occupants in the unfortunate event of a collision. In rollover tests performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the RX-8 achieved an impressive five-star rating.

Mazda engineers integrated numerous active and passive safety elements throughout the car. Active safety features, which require input from the driver, include the use of large ABS-equipped disc brakes on all wheels as well as precise steering and suspension systems. Dynamic Stability Control (standard on manual transmission cars with Sport Package, optional on RX-8s with automatic transmissions) delivers a superior level of handling that can be disabled when driving and road conditions allow safe operation.

Passive systems, or those that take effect automatically without the driver’s involvement, also are present throughout the RX-8. Despite the absence of a center B-pillar, the RX-8 has an exceptionally rigid body, accomplished through the use of a series of locking pins, which hold the doors together and bind each door directly into the roof and floor. Integrating the frame components helps dissipate crash energy through the vehicle’s structure.

Other standard passive systems on the RX-8 include front airbags, seat-mounted side-impact airbags and side-curtain airbags. Additionally, the front end and engine bay have ample crumple zones, the front seats are designed to reduce whiplash injuries, the brake pedal is designed to break away in the event of a collision of sufficient force to protect feet and legs and all four seating positions are fitted with three-point seatbelts. Even pedestrian protection was considered, as the RX-8 is fitted with Mazda’s "shock-cone" hood design that yields more to the impact of a pedestrian onto the hood than a standard design, yet is strong enough to not deform in normal use.

Mazda RX-8: Mass Production Revolution Rolls On

Mazda is offering something big in its new lineup. It includes all-new RX-8 that is made more powerful and lightweight. The release of said models has introduced it to be a sports car like no other.

Tetsu Nakazawa, RX-8 vehicle line manager, “Since its creation, the RX-8 has continued to win rave reviews from the automotive press. The RX-8 is a sports car built for the real world, ideal for zooming around a track, but equally suitable for taking the kids to soccer practice. It is a true sports car that can pull double duty."

2007 Mazda RX-8 is available as a 232-horsepower model engineered with a six-speed manual transmission or a 212-horsepower model engineered with a six-speed automatic with steering- wheel-mounted paddle shifters for a drive feel that is similar to that of Formula 1-style. Both cars are equipped with power door locks, mirrors, cruise control and an AM/FM/CD audio system with 6 speakers. Basically, most of these power parts are based from 1981 Mazda RX-7 parts only that they were upgraded and modified to come up with something better.

Underneath Mazda RX-8 is a race car character wraps in a sleek sports car. Its groundbreaking Rotary Engine Genesis engine (RENESIS) also known as the rebirth rotary engine is a product of meticulous design, engineering and manufacturing processes. In fact, it is the only rotary-powered passenger car around the globe which is mass produced. The engine is capable of efficiently performing the four essential processes crucial to keep the car powerful and agile.

Mazda RX-8 has a muscular built and a unique 'freestyle' design. It aims to prove that true sports car does need not compromise the space, convenience and comfort. Mazda engineers have designed the latest addition to exude versatility, style, performance and safety. In fact, they have integrated in the car several active and passive safety elements.

Active safety elements include the use of big ABS-equipped disc brakes on all wheels, accurate steering, Dynamic Stability Control and suspension systems. On the other hand, passive safety elements consist of the front airbags, seat-mounted side-curtain airbags and side-impact airbags. Furthermore, the front end and engine bay have ample crumple zones and the front seats are designed to diminish whiplash injuries.

By Margaret Adams

Mazda RX8 Horsepower Controversy

Since its launch, the Mazda RX8 has been the subject of close scrutiny by enthusiasts. The high level of attention is not only due to the car’s admirable driving dynamics but, in part to the early reports of below-than-expected performance. To be more specific: wheel horsepower measured on several chassis dynamometer runs resulted in values well below the expected 17%~20% drivetrain parasitic losses. And quarter mile runs of anywhere between 0.5 and 1.5 seconds off of those produced by magazines on allegedly pre-production vehicles.

In connection with the RX-8’s horsepower rating: the original marketing material from Mazda North America (MNAO) advertised the 6 speed manual transmission RX8 at 247hp @ 8,500rpm. Assuming parasitic drivetrain loses between 17%-20% –common for modern rear wheel drive vehicles, a stock Mazda RX-8 should measure between 205~197 horsepower at the rear wheels (rwhp) –depending on elevation, barometric pressure, temperature and correction factors applied. Instead, a stock RX-8 chassis dyno run shows results ranging anywhere from mid-high ~160 to ~185rwhp. Such readings would represent parasitic drivetrain loses in excess of 25%. To say that, it is unacceptable to experience such a high level of loss through the drivetrain of a “sports car” with a carbon fiber drive shaft –amongst other things- is an understatement.

To further consolidate doubts about the actual power output of the new Renesis, several Mazda RX-8 owners were unable to reproduce mid-low 14 second quarter mile passes -as seen published by well known U.S. car magazines. Low trap speeds were another hint towards the apparent lack of power output.

Shortly after, several debates on online enthusiast forums and discussion boards turned into heated arguments as to what was causing such poor "straight line performance." Many former Miata owners remembered a previous "snafu" in Mazda's history, when the manufacturer admittedly overstated the horsepower figures of their redesigned Mazda Miata.

After a few months, MNAO came forward and explained that they had misrepresented the Renesis' power output. The revised figure was now 238hp @ 8,500rpm; however, according to MNAO, this revision did not change the previously achieved track performance results.

Speculations about the reasons behind the sudden lack of power output were many. However, there are currently two schools of thought:

* The first one supports the idea that the RX-8's engine management unit (ECU), in conjunction with the many "nanny" devices -such as ABS & TCS- do not allow to obtain accurate readings from a chassis dynamometer. To simplify, when the car is run on a chassis dyno, only the driven wheels are turning. The RX-8's ECU would detect an abnormal driving situation and retard timing and apply other safety measures to preserve either the "driver" or the "engine" -or both- from damage (read: skidding situation, or a car going out of the road.)
* The second one believes that MNAO was forced to re-engineer the software that runs the engine management even before the first batch of RX-8's reached U.S. shores, due to upcoming Federal emissions regulations. I have read of one in particular, which requires catalytic converter lifespan of ~100,000 miles. The enemy number one of catalytic converters on any vehicle is heat (and heat is the number one attribute of rotary engine's exhaust gases.)

MNAO offered two options to those who had pre-ordered an RX-8, or had purchased no late than September 2003:

* They would buy back the vehicle, no questions asked.
* They would offer FREE Scheduled Maintenance for the life of the warranty, plus a 500 dollar "gift card" to those who opted to keep the car.

I was among those who opted to keep their RX-8. After all, the driving experience had not changed since test driving the vehicle prior to purchasing it. Since August 2003 I have clocked well over 20,000 miles -as of 1/18/2005- and I have but one ounce of regret about my decision. If you'd like to read more about owners' opinions, visit this thread @ RX8Club.com

There have been a number of ECU "updates" released during the past 2 years. To the best of my knowledge, all early samples of '04 RX-8s, came from port with level "J" of engine management software. Since then, we have escalated all the way through the alphabet to "M" -which was released on a TSB campaign by Mazda North America (MSP04) in order to have ALL vehicles taken in for Service @ Authorized Dealers flashed to "M" calibration.

Miguel P. is a college student seeking an Associates in Applied Science, currently working full time in the IT industry. He has a passion for autmobiles, specially those powered by rotary engines. You can contact Miguel or read more material at MyRotaryCar.com

Sumitomo HTR+ Review on a Mazda RX8

I was forced to start looking at potential replacements for the stock Bridgestone Potenza RE040 (225/45/18) slightly after hitting 25,000 miles on them. I was hard pressed by economic reasons to find the cheapest possible tires that would offer a similar or higher tread life (higher was better) and a decent level of performance on dry surfaces, as well as wet. I eliminated a few candidates before settling for the Sumitomo HTRs, namely:

• Fuzion ZRi: Funky looking tread pattern. In other words, all-show-no-go.
• Yokohama AVS ES100: Pretty decent reviews overall, but...heck! ended up over budget!
• Dunlop SP Sport FM901: Had mixed feelings about these, and some pointed to another flavor of Fuzion 'philosophy.'
• Nitto NT555: These tires received good reviews overall from the quarter mile crowd, which didn't quite say much about the tire ability to turn...so, discarded.
• Sumitomo HTR Z II: Out of stock!

So after a brief discussion with a TireRack sales guy, he recommended the Sumitomo HTR+. First I was hesitant to go for an all-season tire. I thought to myself "All seasons on the 8? No way! But slowly I realized that I didn't have much of a choice in the price range I was shopping in. And so I ended up shelling out my credit card to purchase a set of 4 Sumitomo HTR+ in 245/40/18. The rolling stock ends up being something close to
1% bigger than the stock Potenzas. In other words, no big deal.

My first impressions

I got the tires installed and the suspension checked and aligned at Christensen Tire, here in Richardson. In all, the entire install took the a couple hours. I immediately jumped back in the car and drove off. The first thing I noticed was the engine and exhaust note -I am running on a completely stock Mazda RX8. And I could actually appreciate the engine reving up and down over the tire noise. Let me take that back: What tire noise? So, the first impression was a nice one.

However, happiness only lasted one corner. The first time I had to turn, I noticed a tremendous mushiness(sp) on the steering. On my way home, I kept praying for the tire pressure to be extremely low, therefore giving that soft feeling. Well, tire pressure was not it, I checked all 4 cornerns and all 4 were pinned @ 39psi. The tires were actually over-inflated from recommended pressure. The responsible was obviously a very soft and tall sidewall. There is a superimposed photo of the Sumitomos and the Potenzas below. You can see that both tires have similar "total" height when mounted; however, the Potenzas had a slightly rounded sidewall, and a much better lip to protect the wheels. On the other hand, the Sumitomos have a straighter(sp) sidewall, which apparently robs it from stifness.

I will try and rotate these tires every 5,000 miles. Reason being, on the last Potenza rotation, the tires that spent the last 7,500 miles on the rear were badly worn out (evenly worn though). And I'd like to keep the Sumitomos in the best shape possible.

Miguel P. is a college student seeking an Associates in Applied Science, currently working full time in the IT industry. He has a passion for autmobiles, specially those powered by rotary engines. You can contact Miguel or read more material at MyRotaryCar.com

Miguel P

MAZDA RX-8 HYDROGEN ROTARY ENGINE: A SPORTS CAR (AND ENGINE) LIKE NO OTHER

With a cat-like predatory stance, forward-thinking freestyle door system and enough room for four, not two, adults to enjoy all its benefits, the Mazda RX-8 has set itself apart from the pack. But if the recently introduced RX-8 production sports car truly is unique thanks, in large part, to its rotary engine, the RX-8 Hydrogen Rotary Engine (RE) concept, showcased this year at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), takes "unique" to all new levels.

Featuring a fuel system that consists of a high-pressure hydrogen tank, the Mazda RX-8 balances the needs of the driving enthusiast and the environmentalist with a blend of alternative power and the exhilarating driving experience for which Mazda is known.

As the auto industry turns its attention to hydrogen fuel as a gasoline alternative, the RX-8 Hydrogen RE offers a hydrogen-powered version of RENESIS—Mazda’s next generation rotary engine that was introduced last year in the all-new RX-8. By virtue of its smooth performance, compact size and impressive driving characteristics, RENESIS was named International Engine of the Year in June 2003.

The RENESIS Hydrogen RE allows the RX-8 concept to run on either hydrogen fuel or gasoline and capitalizes on all the advantages of the rotary to assure RX-8’s ease-of-operation and reliability.

The RENESIS Hydrogen RE incorporates an electronically controlled hydrogen injector system, with the hydrogen injected in a gaseous state. The system draws air from the side port during the intake cycle and uses dual hydrogen injectors in each of the engine’s twin rotor housings to directly inject hydrogen into the intake chambers.

Because it offers separate chambers for intake and combustion, the rotary engine is ideal for burning hydrogen without the backfiring that can occur in a traditional piston engine. The separate induction chamber also provides a safer temperature for fitting the dual hydrogen injectors with their rubber seals, which are susceptible to the high temperatures encountered in a conventional reciprocating piston engine.

Also helping to maximize the benefits of the rotary engine in hydrogen combustion mode, the RENESIS Hydrogen RE features adequate space for the installation of two injectors per intake chamber. Because hydrogen has an extremely low density, a much greater injection volume is required compared with gasoline, thus demanding the use of more than one injector. Typically, this can be difficult to achieve with a conventional reciprocating piston engine because of the structural constraints that prevent mounting injectors in the combustion chamber. However, with its twin hydrogen injectors, the RENESIS Hydrogen RE is both practical and able to deliver sufficient power.

In addition to the revolutionary hydrogen-powered RENESIS rotary engine, the Mazda RX-8 Hydrogen RE concept benefits from improved aerodynamics and optimized tires and weight-saving measures. A fast-fill tandem master cylinder reduces brake drag and friction hub carriers help cut power losses.

The vehicle also incorporates a host of other technologies for exceptional environmental compatibility. Three-layer, wet-on water-based paint on the RX-8 Hydrogen RE dramatically reduces the emission of organic solvents, saves energy by shortening the drying process and reduces carbon dioxide emissions. Moreover, the plant-based plastics used for the vehicle’s interior parts provide an attractive alternative to plastics derived from fossil fuels such as petroleum.

The Mazda RX-8 Hydrogen RE illustrates Mazda’s dedication to the future environment without abandoning true Zoom-Zoom and soul-of-a-sports-car thinking.

Mazda North American Operations is responsible for the sales and marketing, customer parts and services support of Mazda vehicles in the United States. Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., MNAO has more than 700 dealerships nationwide.

EDITOR'S NOTE: For more information on Mazda products, visit the online Mazda media center at http://www.mazdausamedia.com/.

What Car is This Mazda RX-8?

The Mazda RX-8 is a sports car manufactured by Mazda Motor Corporation. It first appeared in 2001 at the North American International Auto Show. It is the successor to the RX-7 and, like its predecessors in the RX range, it is powered by a rotary engine. The RX-8 began North American sales as 2004 model year car.

Design
The RX-8 was designed as a front mid-mounted, rear-wheel drive 2+2 coupé. The car has a near 50:50 weight distribution, achieved by mounting the engine behind the front axle and the fuel tank ahead of the rear axle. Weight is trimmed through the use of materials such as aluminium (hood & rear doors), and a carbon fiber composite driveshaft on the manual gearbox car; designed to reduce rotational mass (Moment of Inertia) connected to the engine. The rest of the body is steel, save for the plastic front and rear bumpers.

The car features a pair of rear-hinged "freestyle" doors (similar to suicide doors) in order to provide easier access to the rear seats. The RX-8 has no B-pillar between the front and rear doors, with the leading edge of the rear door acting as a "virtual pillar" to maintain structural rigidity. Because of the overlapping design, the rear doors can only be opened when the front doors are open.

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