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The Mazda RX-8 is a high performance, low
cost four-door sports car that offers space for four adults. The
RX-8’s lightweight, 50/50 weight distribution, small yaw-inertia and
low center of gravity provide superb handling.
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New Mazda RX-8
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The front-mid engine/rear wheel drive
layout is enhanced by RENESIS, the new naturally aspirated rotary
engine. A rotary engine has a higher power to weight ratio than an
equivalent piston engine. Reliability is improved since there are only
three moving parts.
The RENESIS has a smaller size, lighter
weight, lower fuel consumption and generates less heat compare to
Mazda’s previous turbo rotary engine. The engine is mounted 2.4-inch
further rearward and 1.6-inch lower than in the RX-7. All the main
masses – engine, six speed manual transmission and fuel tank – are
located within the wheelbase, which is ideal for quick steering
response.
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Double-wishbone
aluminum rear suspension
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High Power model Power: 247 hp Torque: 159
lb-ft Weight: 2930 lb. 0-60mph in 6s Price: US$27,200
Double-wishbone aluminum front suspension, five-link steel rear
suspension and gas-filled monotube dampers give optimum control of
roll-center height, body roll and tire camber. Precise suspension
geometry depends upon a rigid platform. The RX-8 chassis has higher
torsional and bending stiffness than the RX-7 due to floor pan
reinforcements and shock-tower braces. A steel frame locks the entire
powertrain into a single, rigid unit.
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Chassis is
stiffer than its predecessor, the RX-7.
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The result is reduced driveline windup,
faster response and better gear shifting. Electrically assisted
rack-and-pinion steering automatically reduces kickback over bumps.
The RX-8 achieves excellent roadholding without sacrificing ride
quality. Active safety features include limited slip differential,
tire pressure monitoring system, 4-wheel ABS, EBD (Electronic
Brake-force Distribution), traction control and DSC (Dynamic Stability
Control). Large brake rotors, high-grip tires and low weight/CG give
superior braking. 62mph-0 in 118 ft. Brake rotors: front - 12.7 in.
rear - 11.9 in. Wheels (f/r): 18 in. Tires (f/r): 225/45ZR18
Bridgestone Potenza.
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1308cc two-rotor
rotary engine
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RENESIS, the smooth 1308cc two-rotor
rotary engine features both intake and exhaust ports in the side
housings. This configuration permits larger port area, which increases
power significantly.
Zero overlap between intake and exhaust
ports allows the RENESIS to utilize a lean air/fuel mixture, while
unburned fuel is retained for combustion in the next cycle. A high
compression ratio and delayed exhaust port timing improve thermal
efficiency. The 3-stage induction system features variable intake
paths, such that a long route is used for low rpm and a short route at
high rpm. A flat torque curve and lightweight rotors produce fast
acceleration.
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1308cc two-rotor
rotary engine
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Ultra-fine fuel injectors are used to
improve fuel atomization. Small, high power coils provide a more
powerful spark for enhanced ignition. As a result, complete combustion
is ensured across the engine’s entire speed range. An advanced engine
management system and drive-by-wire electronic throttle provide more
precise control than conventional systems.
The wet-sump lubrication system’s shallow
oil pan helps to lower center of gravity. New catalytic converter,
double-wall exhaust manifold and the absence of a turbo contribute to
cleaner emissions.
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