[spin9k]

Originally Posted by cynic

"better" is entirely subjective. RX8 drinks oil, has relatively small mid-range torque, is relatively heavy.

Regards,
C

Originally Posted by Kage

I agree with you entirely. I dont see how either of those cars would count as "better" especially the rx8

Agreed "better" needs a frame of reference, however...

The RX-8 does not "drink oil", it uses it for the same purpose as a piston engine, just differently...

As there is no oil sloshing around in a crankcase under the pistons and rings for lubrication (no pistons, no rings) but rather a rotor and seals not exposed to oil spray, the way lubrication is done is to inject oil mist directly into the combustion chamber where it lubricates the seals and rotor housing. Oil usage depends on the ECU regulating the injectors according to the severity of use.

Normal driving sees no more oil consumption than many piston engines, of course track usage is higher, but the point is to safeguard the engine, as high rpm running is what it LOVES to do, and does well.

If you want to 'see' (feel would be a better term) how good the RX-8 is, get someone to take you for a ride, or better, a track run. Beyond epic handling capabilities way above its pay grade, it has an electric motor like 'flat' torque curve, a very wide and flexible power range 4.5-9K rpm and doesn't mind being rung out without mercy at or near redline for 10, 20 or more minutes under race conditions without any undue raucous, or concern for harm. In fact, it comes alive under such conditions, and is entertaining and very enjoyable track scalpel under those conditions.

It's only limitiation is brute HP, exactly like the FR-S, which means both are momentum cars, with the RX-8 having a better power/weight ratio even still so you see the term "better' is up for debate.

See you at the track!