Speed 3 or RX-8 R3

[DTruongMazda]

Guys I'm torn here.

My wife gave me the green light to pick up a car that's under $30,000. I'm debating to either go with a new Mazdaspeed3, Any owners of the speed3, please chime in as I want to know what kind of aftermarket support this car has... I know some, but I want to know all the ins and outs.

or

Pick up a used 2011 rx-8 r3 with 18K miles on it. I used to own a 2004, and loved it. Had it for 5 years and traded it in for a Mazda 6. There are other cars out there I'm considering for the price: BR-Z, FR-S, new 2014 Mazda 6...

What other fun options are out there for under $30,000 that's a fun car to build up or to own right out of the lot??

What would you guys get??? suggestions?

:drive1:

 

[ohsixspeedsix]

I think it depends on what you're looking for in a car. I like the rx8 but would never own one due to lack of torque and the maintanance. I couldn't imagine going to a speed three after having the all wheel drive of the Speed 6. BRZ and FRS have the same problem as the rx8 - cool looking sports cars and all, but better options as far as speed and performance goes.
Honestly if I were to get any other car in the 30k price range, it would be another MS6, or a newer Subaru STI. Or a NC2 Limited Edition Miata. lol

 

[AJ]

My Miata. Slap some power mods on it and never look back....

Also, BRZ/FRS > All non Miata Mazdas once you toss those stock wheels and tires in the trash.

 

[DTruongMazda]

I think it depends on what you're looking for in a car. I like the rx8 but would never own one due to lack of torque and the maintanance. I couldn't imagine going to a speed three after having the all wheel drive of the Speed 6. BRZ and FRS have the same problem as the rx8 - cool looking sports cars and all, but better options as far as speed and performance goes.
Honestly if I were to get any other car in the 30k price range, it would be another MS6, or a newer Subaru STI. Or a NC2 Limited Edition Miata. lol

I totally feel you on this one. I looked at the STI's and they're going for waaaay too much lower 30's for a 2012. When I had the 04 RX8 6sp, it wasnt soo bad. I changed the spark plugs every 6 months, always checked on the oil levels at every other gas stop. no flooding issues or anything. I racked up over 144K miles on it before trading it in, and the only issue I had was when this lady backed into the front end of my car.

If I'm going used.. I dont think I'd go any more used than a 2011. How doyou like your MS6??? I've never had the opportunity to drive one. They're so rare to find one anyways.

 

[ohsixspeedsix]

I love the ms6. If had it for 2 years, drove it to Florida and back, and out a good 40k miles on it. It still feels great and outs a huge grin on my face when I drive it. It doesn't feel like im driving a big sedan on the streets. And in fact it beat out a couple frs on the autocross course. The only problems I've had were replacing the rear wheel bearings and getting a power steering leak fixed. If you haven't driven one I strongly encourage you to do so. Especially if its a lightly modded one like mine. You may just change your tune.

 

[mndsm]

Ms3- GOBS of power, decent aftermarket (FINALLY!) ok handling. Looks to be debated, at least for the 2g. Not as classy on the inside.

r3- BRILLIANT chassis, excellent looks, ok aftermarket, crap power. Maybe i'm speed blind, but I've driven an r3 package before (ask Jesse sometime, I may or may not still hold the record on that one corner) and while it felt absolutely and totally in control, it felt about 100 horse shy.

 

[Workdawg]

Two totally different cars, as others have mentioned.
The MS3 is all the power in a fun daily driver with some room for people and cargo.
The RX-8 is all the handling in a RWD 2+2. It lacks power, but handles like WOAH.

Between the two, I would probably pick the MS3, but for under 30k, I would probably look elsewhere. If you want to stay pretty new (2011+) then I'd probably pretty seriously consider the BRZ/FR-S.

What do you REALLY want in a car?

 

[matt8478]

I own a 2011 ms3 love the car and have a few mods done to it already after only owning it for 2 months. Cold air intake TIH turbosmart dualport blow off valve, corksport exhuast and cobb stage 1+ tune. So out of all those I would choose the ms3, nothing better than having a quick car and still be able to hual alot of shit. Ms6 would be an awesome car, that is what I wanted to begin with but couldnt find one around here. The only thing I honestly dont like on the ms3 is the smiley face, but I am working on getting that problem fixed lol.

 

[Picklz]

Under 30k? Depends really

I owned an ms3 and loved the car, plenty of power, decent amount of room for hauling people/things, fairly comfortable, etc. The aftermarket is there if you have the money to spend - but not quite to the level you'd find for Evo's and WRX's I personally was never a fan of the RX8 due to lack of power, there's too many other cars (IMO) that are better. I ended up getting a MS6 a couple years ago as I wasn't a huge fan of the Hatch style and wanted AWD for my daily and I love the car for a daily, not really what I'd personally want to mod for power / fun.

Is this just a 'fun' car? Summer only or year round? Needs to haul more than 2 people? I',m biased but depending on your needs I'd honestly recommend a C5 z06, I have pretty bad car ADD both with doing mods, and cars themselves, and I absolutely LOVE mine after 2 summers with it.

 

[007CobaltLS]

Picklz doesn't lie....it was always a guessing game before the z06 and MS6 of "what's the next car for Picklz". There may have actually been a few bets placed... LOL

Sadly I don't have hands on experience with either car so I can't speak, but I personally am someone who likes handling. Speed is fun, but there's only so much you can do without getting in trouble...trust me, I know. Even in a slow Cobalt tickets add up quick.

Based on my personal life and opinion if these were the only 2 choices....This would be a nightmare of a choice for me because I love hatchbacks/wagons, but I like cars that can handle from the factory as well. Being a father of a young kid and having a DD all ready, I would probably choose the RX8 because of the 2+2 factor that my son will be able to ride in the back and because it's a new animal to me...both the rotary and the RWD. And for me, I wouldn't want or need tons of power from the start with a RWD when I have never driven one before. Unlike a z06, 350/370z, etc. which are only 2 seaters. However, my uncle's got an FRS on order...should have it just before winter, I really like the reviews on those and what the car is all about. And another personal choice for me would be either the G35 or G37 coupe because of the luxury and the rear seats while still being a sporty car. Not the best for performance, but still no slouch.

 

[DTruongMazda]

Picklz doesn't lie....it was always a guessing game before the z06 and MS6 of "what's the next car for Picklz". There may have actually been a few bets placed... LOL

Sadly I don't have hands on experience with either car so I can't speak, but I personally am someone who likes handling. Speed is fun, but there's only so much you can do without getting in trouble...trust me, I know. Even in a slow Cobalt tickets add up quick.

Based on my personal life and opinion if these were the only 2 choices....This would be a nightmare of a choice for me because I love hatchbacks/wagons, but I like cars that can handle from the factory as well. Being a father of a young kid and having a DD all ready, I would probably choose the RX8 because of the 2+2 factor that my son will be able to ride in the back and because it's a new animal to me...both the rotary and the RWD. And for me, I wouldn't want or need tons of power from the start with a RWD when I have never driven one before. Unlike a z06, 350/370z, etc. which are only 2 seaters. However, my uncle's got an FRS on order...should have it just before winter, I really like the reviews on those and what the car is all about. And another personal choice for me would be either the G35 or G37 coupe because of the luxury and the rear seats while still being a sporty car. Not the best for performance, but still no slouch.

My game plan is to keep my current car, 08 Mazda 6 as my DD. And looking for a fun car for the price. I've also thrown a wrench into the mix and perhaps make a project car, but I just don't have the time to be wrenching bolts and playing around with the car right now. So I cant a newer 'fun' car for around or under $30K.

My previous experience with the RX8 was absolutely enjoyable and a hoot to drive in the turns and clover leafs. but a small... very small part of me would like something different.

For some reason after looking at and driving the BR-Z and FR-S.. its seems a bit childish to me?? I don't know how to explain it but that. It's a definitely fun car and handling was very comparable to the RX8's. If anyone's interested, the Minnetonka Subaru has a Red BR-Z.

Picklz - How are the Corvettes?? I havent really thought about them till now...

 

[007CobaltLS]

So basically, the RX8 or Toyobaru twins would make for a good fun car for someone who's only driven FWD before, correct? Something that doesn't have too much power, can't get into too much trouble. I don't mean in trouble with the law, I mean in terms of driver error, fairly easy to keep in control of the car unless I push the limits in the corners maybe?

Now I'm reconsidering the RX8 (older one) for a fun car down the road. Maybe I will be a Mazda owner yet. I was starting to consider an 09+ Lancer Ralliart in a few years, but since I'm most likely going to keep my Cobalt as a DD (absolutely no resale and I've already put $4-5k or more into the car to make it enjoyable for me), perhaps I will consider just a fun little RWD car under $12k for myself....only requirement being a backseat for my son. Age and mileage aren't an issue as long as it's cared for.

Sorry to thread jack.

Good luck with your search and do consider the Vette...the C5's are very affordable and both Picklz and JohnnyT can give you all kinds of wonderful info on them.

 

[escort1991]

My game plan is to keep my current car, 08 Mazda 6 as my DD. And looking for a fun car for the price. I've also thrown a wrench into the mix and perhaps make a project car, but I just don't have the time to be wrenching bolts and playing around with the car right now. So I cant a newer 'fun' car for around or under $30K.

My previous experience with the RX8 was absolutely enjoyable and a hoot to drive in the turns and clover leafs. but a small... very small part of me would like something different.

For some reason after looking at and driving the BR-Z and FR-S.. its seems a bit childish to me?? I don't know how to explain it but that. It's a definitely fun car and handling was very comparable to the RX8's. If anyone's interested, the Minnetonka Subaru has a Red BR-Z.

Picklz - How are the Corvettes?? I havent really thought about them till now...

Take a look below:

My Miata. Slap some power mods on it and never look back....

Also, BRZ/FRS > All non Miata Mazdas once you toss those stock wheels and tires in the trash.

Buy this, put some go faster mods and save $15k. lol

 

[ohsixspeedsix]

If you haven't tried out the miata, (2nd or 3rd gen) do it. They are great all arounders. And if you are looking for a "project car" that you don't need to invest much time or money into, look no further. Hell, for way under 30 grand you can buy MY project miata when it's done and that's a one of a kind. Also faster and handles better that rx8 and toyobaru. lol.

Anyways.... definitely corvettes are fun. If you went for a spin with picklz and his you'd probably be out buying one tomorrow. It's a blast.

 

[JohnnyT]

If you're even remotely considering a Corvette I'll throw in my 2 cents on the car.

I picked up an '02 Z06 with 28k miles a couple years ago for $22k. My previous car was a fully bolted MS6 which put out good power and was tons of fun (especially in winter), but I wanted something entirely different, and a C5 Z06 was my 'affordable dream car.' The only one I test drove was the one I bought, and I never tested it against anything else. I still consider it the best bang for your buck all around sports car today. They put out great power (405hp to the crank on '02-04 Z06), handling is immaculate, they're very reliable, OEM parts are very reasonably priced and plentiful, the aftermarket world is vast and generally fair priced, general maintenance is fairly easy to work on, insurance is cheaper than you'd think (with a good record of course), and it can get 30+ highway mpg. Yes, 30+. When my car was stock I was able to hit 32-33mpg on full highway tanks.

Pros:
- Plenty of power - 405hp / 400tq
- Great handling (yes, the car is on leaf springs - but they can be corner balanced)
- Very reasonably priced these days even for low mileage
- Vast aftermarket/support community (especially locally)
- Reasonable insurance (I paid more for the MS6)
- Great MPG if you want it...
- You will get noticed

Cons:
- Interior quality (this is most people's first gripe but it's never bothered me)
- Seats - you'll want to replace these ASAP after taking your first cloverleaf at 70mph
- Tires are spendy
- You will get noticed

For less than the price of a new MS3 you can hop into one of these. Obviously, it's not for everyone, but you really do get a ton for the money here. Over the course of 3 years I've put about $8k into my car - full exhaust, cam, wheels, seats, e85, etc. There's a few more things I'd like to do, but I'm in no rush. I really enjoy this car and with the MS6 I always wanted to tweak something and do more, but this car's totally different - I just want to drive it.

Anyway, if you're ever around the area feel free to take it for a spin if you're looking into a C5 more seriously. Granted, mine's probably not the best comparison but at least you'll get a feel for it. Let's see if I can entice you into one a bit more...

The sound: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZXzpj70qAk

 

[Picklz]

I pretty much agree with everything JT said about the car, pro's/con's, etc. I think the thing that probably impressed me most is how the car rides. Don't get me wrong it's a sports car w/ a sports car suspension, but I bought mine near Detroit MI and drove it back to the cities 10+ hours only stopping for gas and It was amazingly comfortable and compliant for how well it handles. I picked mine up with higher mileage (50k) but it had all the bolton's done already including the appearance stuff and a number of other add-on's, so they really are an incredible value for the performance you get.

To echo another of JT's points, my car was modded when I bought it and had 4.10 rear end gears and I still got 26mpg on the trip home, I don't get that now with e85 but the point is it's a fairly economical car to drive save the cost of tires.

You're obviously limited by only having 2 seats, and the interior isn't anything to write home about. I have the 'sport seats' in mine and I think they are pretty decent, the stock / base z06 seats are pretty bad though. Oh and the 02+ z06's all have HUD (Heads up display) which is aaaamazing! lol. If it fits your needs on paper and you could see owning/driving one I highly recommend taking a ride or drive in one...mine still makes me giggle like a school girl every time I go WOT.

 

[Workdawg]

Don't get me wrong it's a sports car w/ truck suspension.

FTFY.

But for reals. I rode in Picklz vette during our spring cruise and I was super impressed with how comfy it was as well as how nicely it seemed to handle.

 

[DTruongMazda]

Hmm this is so enticing. I never thought of the Vette till now. Thanks JT and Picklz.

Are Z06's prone to being molested like a honda civic is? meaning modified to hell then back to stock, then modified again?

I'm for sure now very interested in researching more about the Z0-SICK!

 

[Picklz]

A few more things I thought I'd mention RE the z06 option.

They are light cars (relatively anyway) that handle very well but they are WIDE, doesn't bother me but if you like really small tossable cars especially for like auto-cross you might be better served by some of the other options. High speed corners and corner exits are where they really shine.

If you test drive one other than mine or JT's, stock they have CAGS which forces a 1-4 shift under light throttle/low RPM, that can be removed via a cheap device or tuned out if you have the car tuned so it's not a big deal but just something to be aware of.

The 2001 z06's were down a bit on power (385hp), did not come with HUD, and were a bit more prone to some high rpm oil burning issues and valve spring issues, I still was considering one - especially if it had an engine swap done, but HUD was kind of a big deal breaker for me anyway. 2002 and 2003 were pretty similar from what I recall, 2004 added better shocks and some other improvements.

There is a 'competition mode' you can put the Traction Control / Active Handling system into that will allow you a bit of leway as far as sliding through turns and stuff but will kick in if you step the rear end out too far, pretty nice feature and it works amazingly well. This is not my first RWD car but it seems like a pretty damn easy car to drive, they are very communicative as to what they are going to do but it's still a rather high HP RWD car so they demand a bit of respect.

Finally they ARE older cars (8-10 years old) so depending on your situation, if you're looking to finance that can pose some challenges, when I bought mine I found a lot of banks didn't want to loan more than 80-90% of the value, and their terms were pretty mediocre at best. I finally went through Think Bank that got me 3.99% on 60 months at 98% of the value. No idea if you're paying cash, looking to finance, your credit, etc but just something to consider.

 

[JohnnyT]

Hmm this is so enticing. I never thought of the Vette till now. Thanks JT and Picklz.

Are Z06's prone to being molested like a honda civic is? meaning modified to hell then back to stock, then modified again?

I'm for sure now very interested in researching more about the Z0-SICK!

No problem, most people think they're still stupid expensive so they don't even bother to look into them. Hopefully we can sway you over to the dark side.

In all honesty, I don't think these cars are very prone to molestation. Most are 1 or 2 owner cars that were bought by the old timers and were used as nice weather/weekend cars. Being that there's not many race tracks around here there's also less chance of abuse. Sure, there's people that beat the snot out of these and solely track them, but you'll know them when you see them. I think the base C5s are a bit more prone to abuse since they're more plentiful and generally cheaper to get into.

Check around, see if something sparks your interest. Picklz and I would be glad to help answer any questions: http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c5-corvettes-for-sale-52/