Hi guys just been reading thru the forums and I wanted to post something
I own an RX8 Type-S (6 speed manual, the claimed 247hp version straight from Japan) and it doesn't weigh as much as everyone is always stating.
I even saw someone stating over 3000lbs that is not correct.
Mine was weighed when registered and it's at 1310kg (2888lbs) and if you watch some BMI video with Tsuchiya they also mention the JDM RX8 at 1310kg.
That versus the 2756lbs (for the high spec - thats what googled told me
) of the GT86 you will see they're more equal than you think.
Also it does NOT get 12mpg - My worst MPG so far was 16mpg, 1 tank of gas only in the city + traffic and always spirited driving (redlining more than once per session, can't resist :P) - It's worth noting that there's a "sweet spot" for cruising that can give you up to 25mpg in highway (not great but not as bad as people say - it was my best mpg so far...) - If im not mistaken it's up to 68mph since above that it goes into the performance loop, drinking gas...
And I am at 61,000miles - Repairs ? Replaced clutch (didn't have any problems, just preventive maintenance since I got the car at a nice price) and coils...Apart from that regular servicing !
I am also considering the GT86 since I used to own a Toyota MR2 before the RX8 and I was always fond of Toyotas...
But you have to consider the fact you can buy a decent used RX8 and turbo it or supercharge it for much less than a new GT86...
I doubt the GT86 stock can hold a candle to a 300whp (or even 250whp) RX8 (I'm talking WHP not BHP). I am sure this is in the back of the mind of every RX8 owner out there considering the GT86...I know it's in mine
I do like the GT86 and its concept, I'm just not conviced its worth changing an RX8 for it... I'm guessing I can rebuild the engine, supercharge it too and still have a car that cost me half the price of a 197hp GT86...
Fun fact: I blown one motor on my Toyota MR2 at 50,000 miles which was babied from day one and never pushed that hard yet my RX8 is at 61,000 miles, redlined and pushed hard daily yet it didn't give me any trouble...Go figure
If you are comparing the supercharged or turbo RX8 to a GT86 there's no comparison...
Personally I'm very cautious on this matter and researching it because I do not want to spend a lot of money just to get a car that's more pseudo-reliable and gets 5mpg more...