A bit from parkers review
Performance
One engine is available in the RX-8 but it comes in two outputs of 192bhp or 231bhp. Confusingly the less powerful engine has more pulling power but comes with a five-speed gearbox rather than the six-speed in the higher output version. The engine itself is actually only a 1.3-litre unit - it's small size is down to the unusual rotary design, but while the power figures are good the engine does need to be worked quite hard to get the most from it. It has a characterful buzzy note and revs all the way up to 9,000rpm - but find yourself in too high a gear and the RX-8 will struggle to gain speed, which can make motorway driving tiring. But that's not to say the RX-8 is slow. The 231bhp variant races from 0-60mph in just 6.4 seconds and it's an enjoyable unit to exploit on a back road. Unfortunately fuel economy soon suffers as a result and while Mazda claims a figure of 25mpg is achievable (27mpg in the lower output car) in reality you'll be lucky to see more than 20mpg in everyday driving.
Car owners reviews
http://www.parkers.co.uk/cars/owners...transmission=M