New Member Here.
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 208
From: Orlando, FL
first, welcome. and to answer your question, in my opinion ofcourse, i'd have to say that rotary engines are the "road less traveled" for many reasons. first, they're one of a kind - no other car out there has them. second, it is usually difficult and inconvenient to have your car professionally serviced by one who is qualified to work on these cars. i, personally, would only trust a select few to work on my engine. that brings me to reason #3. bad reputation. those who are not educated enough to care for their rotary car run into massive problems with their engines, because they don't get proper help from the dealerships. but since the rx-8s are going to be new, there should be much more support for them at mazda service centers. and since the rx-8 is powered by an improved non-turbo engine, it should not suffer in longevity as the fd3s did.
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 4,985
From: Denver, CO
But let's keep in mind that the RX8 is slated to cause a massive re-training of Mazda technicians across the country. My advice, go for the RX8, read the owner's manual, and be sure that your dealer has a certified rotary tech, who has been updated on the new Renesis motor. This next-gen rotary looks like it will be even more stable than the six-figure mileage naturally aspirated motors of the golden age of the rotary.
Bear in mind, Tech, that the RX7's of yesteryear (non-turbo models) were every bit as mechanically sound than their piston counterparts. It was the turbo systems that made everyone afraid of the RX7's. The new Renesis motor will be just as stable as the reciprocating motors in the competition's offerings (a la Infinity G35). Plus, if you ask me, the RX8 is way hotter than any Nissan, Acura, or domestic out there (in the same class).
Bear in mind, Tech, that the RX7's of yesteryear (non-turbo models) were every bit as mechanically sound than their piston counterparts. It was the turbo systems that made everyone afraid of the RX7's. The new Renesis motor will be just as stable as the reciprocating motors in the competition's offerings (a la Infinity G35). Plus, if you ask me, the RX8 is way hotter than any Nissan, Acura, or domestic out there (in the same class).
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 4,107
From: fredneck MD
also rotarys have been under development for MUCH less time then piston style engines. The frist real piston engines were developed (working internal combustion engines) in the 1860's-1890's. the rotary concept was born in the 20's and first built in the so's or 40's. (not sure of that date) the rate of development for the rotary engine has beem much faster then the piston engine. Look how far its gotten in 60 years.
