The Mazda RX-8 entered production in 2003, and the company kicked off its 20th anniversary celebrations for the model in Japan from July 22 through the end of August. Showing off the unique RX-8 convertible was the highlight of the festivities. One can see it at Mazda Brand Space Osaka.
Mazda never sold the RX-8 convertible. It’s unclear how the roof fits in this car. There is a large roll bar in its usual place for the B-pillar. The photo shows that the cutout is higher than the windshield. There are also small nacelles behind the rear seats. The cabin features a mix of red and black leather.
Mazda’s display announcement mentions that visitors need to request permission to open the doors or sit in the RX-8 convertible. This suggests that it’s possible to approach the unique car, assuming the people there accept your request.
The RX-8 convertible made its debut in 2008 during Mazda’s company event (see below). Senior employees stand in it during the automaker’s model parade.
The RX-8 was launched for the 2004 model year in the United States. Production started in April 2003. Power comes from a two-rotor Wankel engine with a capacity of 1.3 liters. It makes 238 horsepower and 159 pound-feet of torque with the six-speed manual. The four-speed automatic drops output to 197 hp but torque increases to 164 lb-ft. Then on the run, there’s a six-speed automatic offering 212 hp. Company built The last RX-8 was in June 2012.
After the death of the RX-8, Mazda did not sell a rotary engine for several years. The MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV has finally revived the brand by using the Wankel engine in production cars but in a very different way than before. The 830 cc powerplant produces 75 horsepower and 86 pound-feet of torque, and serves as a range expansion for the electric crossover’s 17.8 kilowatt-hour battery. Settings give the vehicle a range of 373 miles.
Mazda is not offering the MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV in the US. In Germany, this model starts at the equivalent of $39,740 (35,990 euros).
