A4 3.0 or Mazda RX8
09-22-2003, 07:21 AM
#1
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A4 3.0 or Mazda RX8
Alright I know you guys are biased, but I'm trying to decide between a Mazda RX8 or an A4 3.0Q 6 spd. Any thoughts would be appreciated. I have to admit I'm leaning toward the RX8, just because it seems like it would be more fun.
09-22-2003, 07:26 AM
#2
haven't driven either but the Mazda dealership here is stuck with 3 or 4...
the same 3 or 4 since they came out. I don't know about anywhere else but it seems like here...no one wants one...and it's not like there isn't a market for that around here. there are a few Z's and STi's. I guess if want to get one then you might as well shop here! Cuz I bet they would pay YOU to take it!! 
) haha
) haha
09-22-2003, 07:34 AM
#4
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If your primary concern is fun, then go for the RX8.
Because it IS (IMHO) more fun than our A4s. I have an '02 A4 and would love to add an RX8 at some point.
I don't care whether the RX8s are selling or not or whether they're 250hp or 210hp, its still a great car.
But if you want/need Quattro and would like a much nicer interior and a much more substantial feel to the doors, switches, etc, then the A4 is your car.
Good luck. You won't go wrong either way.
I don't care whether the RX8s are selling or not or whether they're 250hp or 210hp, its still a great car.
But if you want/need Quattro and would like a much nicer interior and a much more substantial feel to the doors, switches, etc, then the A4 is your car.
Good luck. You won't go wrong either way.
09-22-2003, 07:53 AM
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You do know that Mazda misrepresented the power of the RX8?
Mazda has now admitted that the rotor engine in the new RX8 does not produce the originally claimed 250 HP. Instead, it actually produces 238 HP, a 12 HP difference. They've already offered a buyback deal to existing RX8 owners.
Be that as it may, it doesn't detract from the recorded numbers that the magazines have posted. The RX8 is a much lighter car than the A4. Therefore, it doesn't require as much power to get the RX8 moving. The one downfall that's been noted is that the low torque of the RX8 means that you need to get the engine revving high in order to get some action going.
If you haven't already done so, test drive both back-to-back on the same day so you can get your own driving impression. If the RX8 knocks you crazy for driving fun, then go for it!
If you're liking the refinement of the 3.0 with the added control of quattro, then the A4 is for you.
I've heard from some RX7 fans that they're not too fond of the rear doors. They also didn't like the interior finish (way too plasticky). They felt that even though Mazda tried to retain the original RX7 spirit (performance sports car for low cost), they made too many compromises to appeal to a broader market.
Go out and try them. Then make your own decision. =)
Be that as it may, it doesn't detract from the recorded numbers that the magazines have posted. The RX8 is a much lighter car than the A4. Therefore, it doesn't require as much power to get the RX8 moving. The one downfall that's been noted is that the low torque of the RX8 means that you need to get the engine revving high in order to get some action going.
If you haven't already done so, test drive both back-to-back on the same day so you can get your own driving impression. If the RX8 knocks you crazy for driving fun, then go for it!
If you're liking the refinement of the 3.0 with the added control of quattro, then the A4 is for you.
I've heard from some RX7 fans that they're not too fond of the rear doors. They also didn't like the interior finish (way too plasticky). They felt that even though Mazda tried to retain the original RX7 spirit (performance sports car for low cost), they made too many compromises to appeal to a broader market.
Go out and try them. Then make your own decision. =)
09-22-2003, 07:58 AM
#7
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Re: A4 3.0 or Mazda RX8
Totally different animals. The 3.0 is a true four door, five seater. It has power and sport handling. The RX 8 is a 2 + 2, faster, sport handling, small back seat. What are your priorities?
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09-22-2003, 10:00 AM
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Good point about resale. Mazdas traditionally have somewhat weak..
...resale values anyway. But then again our A4s are the greatest either.
It will be interesting to see if Mazda will need to incent buyers down the road (next year or so) with cash back offers. The A4, although not a fantastic resale value, is at least more of a known quantity.
It will be interesting to see if Mazda will need to incent buyers down the road (next year or so) with cash back offers. The A4, although not a fantastic resale value, is at least more of a known quantity.