Mazda RX-8

The Mazda RX-8 (2003–2012) is a brilliant four-seat coupé with a unique rotary (Wankel) engine, offering a driving experience unlike anything else on UK roads. Its 1.3-litre Renesis rotary produces 192bhp (or 231bhp in the higher-spec models) and revs to an exhilarating 9,000rpm, paired with a crisp six-speed manual gearbox and a perfectly balanced rear-wheel-drive chassis. In the UK, it has a cult following among enthusiasts who prize its smooth power delivery, freestyle rear-hinged doors, and the genuine sense of occasion it provides on a twisting B-road. However, the RX-8 rewards informed ownership far more than casual used-car buying—rotary engines consume oil by design and require regular top-ups, and compression loss over time can lead to expensive rebuilds. Insurance groups are moderate for the performance on offer, and running costs are higher than conventional rivals due to fuel consumption of around 25–30mpg. The RX-8's biggest threat in the UK is structural corrosion rather than mechanical complexity, with rear arches, sills, and front chassis rails all prone to rot. For buyers willing to invest in proper maintenance, the RX-8 remains one of the most rewarding and characterful sports cars available on the used market.