Alternatives to RX-8?

[Wadeski]

Hey japchatters,

A friend of mine is thinking of getting an RX-8 to replace his Fiat Coupe Turbo.

He has about 10-12k to spend, and would like something a bit newer than his Fiat - post 2000 ideally. Proper back seats and a sporty drive (at least as good as the Fiat) is also a criteria.

Other than the RX-8, what else would people recommend?

I had thought:

350z
Integra Type-R (DC5)
Sylvia S15
BMW M Breadvan

Skyline, Evo, Scooby are probably a bit garish looking for him.

[968CSReading]

I guess it depends if he must have 2 or 4 seats. Some bargain RX8 out there at the moment due to the rising running costs.

Has he driven one yet, might find it a little slow compared to his current car.

[Stewart-83]

350Z has no back seats.

The import only G35 (same chassis and engine but more refined) has 4 seats and is a bit different without being garish.

[Wadeski]

Thats a good point, thanks.

RX-8s are shockingly cheap - the dealership offered him a brand new loaded Rx-8 231hp fir £16k! Thats insane.

Are they about to be taxed to buggery, causing catastrophic lack of demand?

[anonymous-user]

They will be in the top tax rate - the full £400 and odd quid a year. Plus if used enthusiastically, you'll not likely see over 20mpg and fuel's not getting any cheaper. The car will probably feel slower than his Fiat Coupe. However, I'd give a good bet it will actually be quicker. I had a few instructors in mine on track comment that it didn't feel that quick until you realised what cars you were catching and passing. It really is a usable 4 seater too with the back seats being comfortable for full sized adults.

I chose the Rex because there is so little that competes for the money. BMW 330? If happy to go older, Nissan 200SX?