
The Good
The RX-8 offers exhilarating performance thanks to its high-revving rotary engine and balanced chassis. Its unique design and rear-hinged doors appeal emotionally. While not the most reliable, its relative affordability and engaging driving dynamics present a compelling value proposition for enthusiasts. Comfortable front seats make it suitable for daily driving.
The Bad
The RX-8's rotary engine is known for its relatively poor fuel economy and oil consumption. Potential buyers should watch out for engine compression issues, which can lead to difficult starting and reduced performance. Ignition coil failure and catalytic converter problems are also common concerns, requiring diligent maintenance.
2010 Mazda RX-8: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 1.3-liter RENESIS rotary engine
- Horsepower:
- Manual Transmission: 232 hp @ 8,500 rpm
- Automatic Transmission: 212 hp @ 7,500 rpm
- Fuel Economy:
- Manual Transmission: 16 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
- Automatic Transmission: 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- Manual Transmission: ~6.4 seconds
- Automatic Transmission: ~7.2 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable
- Trim-Level Features:
- Sport: Cloth seats, 16-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, power windows and locks, AM/FM/CD stereo.
- Grand Touring: Leather seats, heated front seats, Bose audio system, sunroof, fog lights, automatic climate control.
- R3: Sport-tuned suspension with Bilstein shocks, rear spoiler, side sills, Recaro sport seats, 19-inch forged alloy wheels, improved aerodynamics, and deletion of rear seats for weight reduction. It also has a stiffer suspension and unique styling cues.
- Key Differentiators: The RX-8 is distinguished by its rotary engine, which offers a unique power delivery and high-revving nature. The R3 trim enhances handling with its upgraded suspension and lightweight wheels. Rear-hinged doors provide easy access to the rear seats, making it more practical than some other sports cars.
2010 Mazda RX-8 Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2010 |
Make | Mazda |
Model | RX-8 |
Trim | - |
Style | 4-Door Coupe |
Type | Coupe |
Category | Subcompact Car |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | Japan |
Manufacturing City | HIROSHIMA |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | 1411.12 kg |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 1731.81 kg |
Overall Height | 134.11 cm |
Overall Length | 446.02 cm |
Overall Width | 177.04 cm |
Wheelbase Length | 270 cm |
Standard Seating | 4 |
Engine & Performance
Engine | 1.3-L L-2 ROTARY |
Engine Size | 1.3L |
Engine Cylinders | 2 |
Transmission | 6-Speed Manual Overdrive |
Transmission Type | Manual |
Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $31,990 USD |
Invoice Price | $29,594 USD |
Delivery Charges | $750 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2010 Mazda RX-8 Have?
Oil consumption is inherent to the rotary design, requiring owners to regularly monitor and top off the oil level. Failure to do so can accelerate engine wear. Some reports suggest that later model years, including 2010, had slightly improved engine durability compared to earlier years, but compression loss remains a concern. There have been recalls related to fuel leakage and potential fire hazards in earlier RX-8 models. While some fixes were implemented, owners should verify that any applicable recalls have been addressed. Long-term reliability is dependent on diligent maintenance, including regular oil changes and spark plug replacements. The RX-8 requires a more hands-on approach to ownership compared to piston-engine cars.
How long will the 2010 Mazda RX-8 last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features are limited compared to modern vehicles. It includes standard anti-lock brakes (ABS) and traction control. Stability control (Dynamic Stability Control) is also standard, enhancing handling and safety.
Safety features include front and side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags for occupant protection. The RX-8 received mixed crash-test ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). While it performed well in some categories, it received lower ratings in others, particularly in side-impact tests. It's important to note that safety standards and testing procedures have evolved significantly since 2010. The R3 trim focuses more on performance and handling and offers similar tech and safety features as the Grand Touring but with performance enhancements like sport-tuned suspension and Recaro seats. Overall, the 2010 RX-8 prioritizes the driving experience over advanced tech features, focusing on core safety and entertainment.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2010 Mazda RX-8 Prices and Market Value
2010 Mazda RX-8 Cost of Ownership
2010 Mazda RX-8 Fuel Efficiency
2010 Mazda RX-8 Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2010 Mazda RX-8 Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2010 Mazda RX-8 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2010 Mazda RX-8 Compare to Other Coupe?
Feature-wise, the RX-8 is comparable, offering decent tech for its era. However, reliability is where the RX-8 falls short. The 350Z and Genesis Coupe are generally more reliable. The S2000 is renowned for its exceptional reliability.
Price-wise, the RX-8 can be more affordable on the used market, making it tempting. However, potential maintenance costs can quickly offset the initial savings.
Alternatives to consider include:
- **Nissan 350Z/370Z:** More reliable and offers strong performance.
- **Honda S2000:** Exceptional handling and bulletproof reliability, though often more expensive.
- **Hyundai Genesis Coupe:** A more modern and practical option with decent performance.
- **Mazda MX-5 Miata:** Lighter and more nimble, with excellent reliability, though less powerful.
If reliability is a priority, the S2000, 350Z/370Z, or Miata are better choices. If you're seeking a unique driving experience and are prepared for the maintenance demands, the RX-8 can be rewarding.
Ranks #61 Coupe
1 | 2023 Toyota GR Supra | (0.0β ) |
2 | 2023 Lexus RC F | (0.0β ) |
3 | 2011 Honda CR-Z | (5.0β ) |
4 | 2023 Subaru BRZ | (5.0β ) |
5 | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | (4.0β ) |
6 | 2024 BMW 4 Series | (0.0β ) |
7 | 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class | (5.0β ) |
8 | 2014 Ford Mustang | (5.0β ) |
9 | 2023 Audi A5 Cabriolet | (0.0β ) |
10 | 2023 Nissan GT-R | (0.0β ) |
11 | 2015 Hyundai Veloster | (0.0β ) |
12 | 2008 Chevrolet Corvette | (5.0β ) |
61 | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | (5.0β ) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2010 Mazda RX-8 a Good Coupe?
Supermanta on May 30, 2021
Great car for the moneyI always wanted a Mazda RX-8 so l got one three years ago with only 9500 miles on it best car I've ever owned l am 65 years old and regret the day I might have to sell it l hope that doesn't happen any time soon.
Florida on February 18, 2019
I use to Drive BMW Z3 and Z4's and the RX matchesThe RX compares with the BMW Z4 class car, but for Thousands less. The only thing it's missing is being able to drop the top. It also cost much less in maintenance cost. This is the second one I've owned, wish they still imported them.
Lou772 on December 23, 2018
Fun car to driveI use to own BMW Z4's and my attorney talked me into trying one. The only thing the Bimmer has over the RX is it's a Convertible, but for the money I'll keep the RX. My first one was a Sport, but I needed better seats, now I own the GT. Wish they were still importing, great cars.
Sherri on February 25, 2018
Prettiest car I?ve ever purchasedVery happy with this car, good condition and very pretty with low miles. Thank you car.com for being available so I could find this great car!!
Runethecursed on December 29, 2017
Car for the PuristFor the purist, size up from the miata size down from basically anything bigger. Great Dual purpose car. People spend too much time looking at numbers and reliability, go out and drive one! You'll see why its the best handling car in the world. The power is easy to use the gearbox is firm and solid, and heel toeing in this car makes you feel like Aryon Senna. Words hardly do it justice, That all said, it is a race car in street form, it requires patience and understanding that it needs alot more regular maintenance than a standard car. BUt it's so worth it
John F. on March 27, 2017
A lot of car for the moneyWas always interested in this car but haven't looked into one until recently. Man was I impressed! Doesn't have all the bells and whistles that some of the newer cars have, but that's not what I was looking for. it's all about performance. Not much under the hood, but you would never know. 6 speeds of fury! I love driving this car. plus handles like a dream!
John on July 8, 2013
Inspiring Handling, Well Built, and FunFound this model with only 10k miles and swooped up the R3 version with great financing. The car feels like a true sports car, very inspiring in the corners, begs to have a track, the rotary revs out great and sounds awesome. Very nice outer/inner styling and interior packaging. A truly fun car to drive and own. Sharply tuned suspension not recommended for long highway drives unless its a smooth highway you will feel every bump in the road and it may get old depending on your comfort needs. Quick acceleration despite a low torque motor as compared to other cars in its class.
Mechanical Engineering Professional on July 25, 2012
Best handling car under 20k, that isn't a miataI love this car. The unique pistonless engine makes an awesome sound, as it happily revs up to 9k rpm. The manual transmission shifts as well as sports cars costing 2 to 3 times more (triple cone syncros help). The pedals give excellent control, which complements the responsive engine. The steering feels laser guided. The rear half doors & reasonably sized rear seats make it more practical than most sports cars. I especially like the styling of my "series II" model (2009-2011). To summarize, it's a nimble, responsive, well balanced, very fun to drive car.
OGJYSHO on April 24, 2012
ZoomZoomLets get to the point. People who have their engines replaced two or three times do not know how to drive rotary engines. Follow the steps. 1. Rev it up. You have got to make this car explode, this car was made to hit 9K RPM. This does not kill the engine it helps it release the gunk stored in its engine compartment. 2. Once you turn it on, you must keep it on. DO NOT TURN OFF the car once you turn it on. 3. Put premium gas ONLY. 4. Oil change every 2600 miles. IT IS A MUST 5. Replace spark plugs and wires every 10K miles. 6. Never let anyone use your rotary engine. THEY WONT CARE. If you follow these simple practices there is not chance you should put a new engine on. Other than that this car is awesome. I put reliability at one so you can read this. But if you know how to maintain or follow everything above the reliability is a 5. The manual gear box is like an AXE MURDERER. Really hard but if you know how to shift, its a beautiful thing.
Should have bought a Z on March 7, 2012
Change Engines Almost like Changing OilI liked the RX-8 had a backseat, small but useable. Handling is good but acceleration from a stop is faster on a bicycle. I had 3 engines replaced in 60,000 miles. I only met one owner who had never had an engine replaced. The question was bot, have you replaced an engine? but how many? I begged the dealer to tell me how to prevent engine failure. They couldn't tell me and denied it was a problem. The local rental agency pick-up girl knew. She asked, "What kind of car was in for work?" When I said, "RX-8". She said, "Engine replacement?" All the owners know. The dealers won't admit it. Buyer beware!