The Mazda RX-8

This is of course the Mazda RX-8. A car in fact that I had the genuine pleasure of driving at the weekend. It's pretty much the only production car left on the road that has the rotary engine. This is smaller than a standard unit but more powerful, and thirsty to boot. To put this in perspective you'll find that the 1.3 performs more like a 2.5.

Anyway, let's get straight to it. Performance is, well, interesting. I say this because yes, the RX-8 does have a lot of power to offer, however you'll find that the delivery of that power is fairly unique. The reason I say this is that the engine needs to be revved to get performance. The top end version in fact goes even beyond the normal 9,000 RPM limiter. Sheer madness, but amazing to use.

On that note, if you're a Sunday driver keen to upchange well before 3,000 RPM this is not the car for you. If on the other hand you actually like to drive a car then you could well have some fun with this.

The RX-8 is one of the few sports coupes that features usable back seats and they even have cool suicide door access. Certainly something that will make it eye catching. The big boot is another great feature, making it a solid performer in the space stakes as well.

Overall, I can't complain at the RX-8, but given the high fuel consumption of that engine (think about 20 MPG) and the fact that fuel costs are rising, I'm not sure yet I could justify the purchase. Then again, I was looking at a Nissan 350Z and this is rather more practical...

Finally, there's a 40th Anniversary version of the RX-8 coming out. It features bespoke 18” alloy wheels and an exclusive Alcantara® seat trim. Look for it in an amazing white finish on forecourts soon.