MAZDA RX-8Timing chain or Belt?

The Mazda RX-8 is a sports car manufactured by the Japanese marque Mazda. It was introduced in 2001 at the North American International Auto Show. The RX-8 is the natural successor to the Mazda RX-7 and, like its predecessors in this model series, is powered by a rotary or Wankel engine. To date, it can be considered the last commercial vehicle with a rotary engine. It ceased production in 2012; Mazda felt that the investment required for its engine to meet emissions standards did not compensate for its low sales.

The RX-8 was sold for only one generation, although there were distinctions during its 10-year life on the market. The oldest models of the RX-8, with chassis codes SE3P and JM1FE, were produced from 2003 onwards. It featured a Renesis 13B-MSP 2-rotor Wankel Renesis 13B-MSP engine with side intake. This, as well as the others, had 1,300 cubic centimeters of displacement. The standard 4-valve version developed 191 hp and was mated to a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The high-horsepower 6-valve Renesis version was only available with a 6-speed manual transmission and was rated at 238 hp.

At the end of 2008, Mazda updated this model. It did so by improving the structural rigidity of the vehicle and changing the suspension. In 2009, the engine was upgraded by adding a third oil injection port. This was done to address the major reliability issues identified in the first stage. A new catalytic converter was also added.

Although this model is an absolute gem for its design and engine, it was quite criticized at the time for its reliability and fuel consumption. However, it must be recognized that this type of vehicle requires a very thorough maintenance to be durable. The RX-8 lacked a direct competitor, but it did rival a multitude of sports cars of its time, such as the Alfa Romeo Brera, the Mitsubishi Eclipse, the Honda S2000 and the Toyota Supra. The Mazda RX-8 will surely follow in the footsteps of its predecessor and become a classic vehicle.