Let's start with something totally unrelated to the RX-8. Today I had my first chance to drive the 2009 Pontiac Vibe. As it happens, the car that I drove to the Vibe preview was the Vibe's mechanical twin, the 2009 Toyota Matrix. Pure coincidence, this was -- I booked my week-long test of the Matrix several weeks before I was invited to check out the Vibe. Still, it felt like one of those cosmic-alignment things. But now I'm faced with writing two different reviews of two similar cars. And to top it all off, I'm working on writing up the car I drove previous to the Matrix -- the 2009 Toyota Corolla, on which the Matrix and Vibe are based. So make that three different reviews of three similar cars. Not that I'd ever complain about my job, but I did find myself staring at the keyboard and wondering if I should have become an airline pilot.
So I'm ready for something completely different -- the Mazda RX-8. I haven't driven one of these puppies for a couple of years, but I still remember how much I enjoyed it. The RX-8 is getting a major styling update for 2009, which means I'll get another chance to drive it soon -- woo-hoo!! Anyway, check out these pictures of the 2009 Mazda RX-8. You'll notice, among other things, that the "rotary" element is gone from the back bumper. In case you can't spot the differences -- and it's not particularly easy -- I've included a couple of pics of the current RX-8 in the gallery. Enjoy! -- Aaron Gold
Photo © Mazda
Maybe since the cars are so similar you could just do a package review then underscore the differences where there are any. I’m sure someone wouldn’t like it but at least you wouldn’t be stuck disguising the fact that you’re repeating yourself. Hey, just be happy they aren’t Yugo variants.
Something different in the RX-8, alrighty. Although I’ve never owned one, I’ve always had a thing for Mazda rotaries, even writing a couple of books on them. But I had to turn down a week in an RX-8 this summer because I’d been there too many times and there are so many cars… Here’s 2004 and 2006. There just wasn’t enough difference to look at 2007. I think I wound up driving a minivan or something. What one does for one’s craft, eh, Aaron?
Anyway, I’m looking forward for a new RX, a cure for what ails ya. I love the sound of the rotary when it’s wound up. The problem with the RX-8, however, is that you have to have the engine wound up to make it do anything. So to drive with any enthusiasm you have to drive on the frantic side, a lot like the Honda S2000. But take either on the track…