RX-8 S3
The Mazda RX-8 features naturally-aspirated 1.3-liter Renesis 13B-MSP twin-rotor engine producing 232 horsepower at 8500 RPM with six-speed manual transmission or 212 horsepower with six-speed automatic and rear-wheel-drive achieving distinctive rotary engine character with 9000-RPM redline manual specification featuring revolutionary side-port exhaust design eliminating apex seal wear and improving efficiency with characteristic high-revving performance and smooth power delivery establishing unique four-door sports coupe configuration with suicide rear doors and 50:50 weight distribution providing balanced handling dynamics with double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension delivering genuine sports car performance with practical four-seat accommodation representing final production Mazda rotary engine application with sophisticated chassis engineering and characteristic Japanese refinement establishing distinctive styling and genuine driving engagement.
RX-8 launched 2003 represents Mazda rotary sports car continuing Wankel engine heritage following RX-7 establishing modern interpretation with practical four-seat configuration competing against contemporary sports coupes establishing Japanese manufacturer rotary engine credentials with revolutionary Renesis engine featuring side exhaust ports and enhanced thermal efficiency produced until 2012 establishing strong enthusiast following for unique rotary character and balanced chassis dynamics continuing Mazda motorsport tradition with proven racing success and comprehensive aftermarket support representing significant rotary engine development with improved reliability and distinctive performance characteristics establishing final chapter in production Wankel engine history with characteristic smooth high-revving operation and genuine sports car dynamics representing Japanese automotive engineering excellence with innovative four-door coupe design and sophisticated platform architecture establishing enduring enthusiast appreciation for unique engine technology and genuine driving engagement.