Nobody ever complained about the looks of the Mazda RX-8. Instead, it is known to give owners quite a headache when it comes to running costs, particularly through gulping down a lot of fuel and oil. In this regard, what makes it special - the rotary engine - is also its Achilles' heel.

The rotary engine's prime was without a doubt the Mazda RX-7

More specifically, the third-gen RX-7, codenamed FD, which was fitted with a sequential twin-turbo setup, a true mechanical work of art. Couple that with Ferrari looks, superb weight distribution and handling and you get, quite frankly, the ultimate expression of the rotary engined sports car.

That's how the RX-8 was shown to the world in 2001 at the North American International auto show (U.S. market debut consumed in 2004) with the 1.3-liter, RENESIS 13B-MSP two-rotor Wankel engine.

Unfortunately, the powerplant was known for a variety of issues that had to do with sealing (the apex seals in particular), heat dissipation, and carbon buildup. Let's say it was a somewhat demanding engine that required a lot of attention and care.

Now, why would you care about Doug DeMuro's opinion on the Mazda RX-8, then?

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In that sense, you can look at this 25-minute video as a pretty good introduction into the world of used Mazda RX-8s, provided you are in the market for a pre-owned one.