2008 Mazda RX-8

The convention-defying Mazda RX-8 is unlike any other sports car, many reviewers say. Not only does it have unusual styling, with an extra set of mini doors that provide easier access to rear seats, but it's powered by a small rotary engine with a 9,000-rpm redline. While not as roomy as a typical sedan, the pair of small rear seats are usable even for adults, a rare luxury among sports cars.

Reviewers seem to respect the RX-8 for being a practical, "mature" sports car that's easy to live with everyday, with a comfortable ride and good level of equipment at a reasonable price. While it can hustle down a winding road with taut responses, reviewers say the ride is compliant and almost as smooth as a sedan's. Some reports criticize the Mazda RX-8 for being too soft, and not as performance-oriented as competitors. It seems that for every reviewer who finds the rotary engine intriguing, there is another who is unimpressed by its lack of low-end power and high fuel consumption. Many reviews are wary of the long-term reliability of the unconventional rotary when looking at its past record of engine problems and high oil consumption. More modern alternatives to the Mazda RX-8 include the pricier Audi TT coupe (*est. $34,800 to $42,900) or even some sports sedans such as the Subaru Impreza WRX (*est. $24,350 to $38,795).

We found comprehensive, well-organized road-test reviews of the 2008 Mazda RX-8 at Cars.com, Edmunds.com, The Car Connection and Kelley Blue Book. ForbesAutos.com includes the RX-8 on its "Sports Cars We Recommend" list, and includes a well-written review. Car and Driver selects the Mazda RX-8 as its first choice in a 2007 comparison test against three other sports coupes, despite the fact that the Mazda RX-8 is slowest on the race track.