Mazda RX-8

Mazda RX-8
Overview
Manufacturer	Mazda
Model code	SE3P / FE[1][2]
Production	February 2003 – June 2012
Model years	2003–2012
Assembly	Japan: Hiroshima (Hiroshima Plant)
Designer	Ikuo Maeda[3] Wu-Huang Chin (interior designer)
Body and chassis
Class	Sports car (S)
Body style	Quad coupé
Layout	Front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive
Doors	Conventional (front) Suicide (rear)
Related	Mazda MX-5 (NC)
Powertrain
Engine	1.3 L RENESIS twin-rotor
Power output	189–238 hp (141–177 kW)
Transmission	5-speed manual 6-speed manual 4-speed RC4A-EL automatic 6-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,703 mm (106.4 in)
Length	2003–2008: 4,425 mm (174.2 in) 2009–2012: 4,470 mm (176.0 in)
Width	1,770 mm (69.7 in)
Height	1,340 mm (52.8 in)
Curb weight	Manual models: 1,309–1,373 kg (2,886–3,027 lb) Automatic models: 1,384 kg (3,051 lb)
Chronology
Predecessor	Mazda RX-7

The Mazda RX-8 is a sports car manufactured by Japanese automobile manufacturer Mazda between 2003 and 2012. It was first shown in 2001 at the North American International Auto Show. It is the direct successor to the RX-7.^[4] Like its predecessors in the RX range, it is powered by a rotary Wankel engine. The RX-8 was available for the 2003 model year in most parts of the world.

The Mazda RX-8 utilizes a rotary Wankel engine, and the non-reciprocating piston engine uses a triangular rotor inside a near oval housing, producing from 141 kW (189 hp) and 164 lb⋅ft (222 N⋅m) of torque, to 177 kW (237 hp) and 159 lb⋅ft (216 N⋅m) of torque from launch. A myriad of various drivetrains are available in the Mazda RX-8.

The RX-8 was discontinued for the 2012 model year without a successor. It was removed earlier from the European market in 2010 after the car failed to meet emissions standards. Due to falling sales from Europe coupled with rising Yen prices, Mazda could not justify the continued sale of the RX-8 in other markets.^[5] 192,094 units were produced during its 9-year production run.^[6]