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← Mazda RX-8 · 2003-2012 · SE3P

Mazda RX-8 SE3P

Headline trim: 1.3 twin-rotor NA - 231 bhp, 0-62 in 6.4s.

press photo
Verdict
B
BHP
231 bhp
0–60
6.4 s
Top speed
146 mph
MPG
20 mpg (US)
Used
$4,400-$15,000

Strengths

  • 9000 rpm rotary wail - nothing else sounds like it
  • Four seats with rear suicide doors - genuine practicality
  • RWD with 50:50 weight balance and Torsen LSD

Weaknesses

  • Apex seal failure is endemic - budget for rebuild
  • 20 mpg real-world economy
  • Famously consumes 1L oil per 1000 miles by design

Notable tech

  • One-and-only RX-8 (SE3P)
  • 13B-MSP Renesis 1.3 NA twin-rotor
  • Rear suicide doors - 4-seat coupe
  • 6MT manual / 6AT auto
  • RWD with Torsen LSD
  • 231 bhp High Power / 192 bhp Standard Power UK
  • Production ended 2012 - Euro 5

Common issues

  • Apex seal failure
  • Catalytic converter failure
  • Coolant seal O-rings

Engine derivatives

US-spec trims and engines offered across SE3P's life. Click any two rows to compare them side-by-side.

Pick two engines to compare
1.3 NA Renesis 192
BHP192
Torque220 Nm
0–607.2 s
Top139 mph
MPG (US)21 mpg
DriveRWD
Gearbox5MT / 6AT
1.3 NA Renesis 231
BHP231
Torque211 Nm
0–606.4 s
Top146 mph
MPG (US)20 mpg
DriveRWD
Gearbox6MT