Future Classic and Screaming Bargain? 7th October, 2016

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Playing the “Future Classic” game is tricky but with this 2005 stock standard, low mileage Mazda RX8 it’s a game worth playing for two reasons. Firstly, pretty much every rotary powered Mazda has become collectible and has increased in value over time so the future looks bright for the RX8. Secondly, this is simply a really good car at, potentially, a very good price that’ll be fun to own and drive. So is there a downside?

About the only downside I can see is this is the standard model rather than the high-power model or one of the limited edition cars. That said the standard car still squirts out 190hp from its rotary engine and is fitted with a 5 speed manual transmission. The RX8 is rear wheel drive with a near 50:50 weight distribution, has some tricky suspension and nice use of weight saving materials. The styling may not be as instantly appealing as other RX cars before it but it does have that one cool party trick that makes it just a bit more practical for a sports car – the rear “suicide” doors. These passenger doors give decent access to surprisingly comfortable rear seats.

So what about this car? Well it’s an early model from 2005, has travelled just 53,000kms, has an excellent mechanical report and is completely original. The auction estimate is a mere $5500 - $6000 so whether it becomes a classic or not it’s great buying for a fun, practical sports car. And who knows, in 20 years it could be seen as a must have retro collectible. Bonus!

The auction for the Mazda is at Turners Christchurch on Monday (10^th October). More details here.