No its not like an electric motor at all. It just revs alot higher than most engines. Also having just gotten home from an autocross today I can certainly tell you that although the rx8 can handle well and can be quick. It pushes like a mother. is not very quick and is rather ungainly on weight transfer (its bigger). The s2000 is nimbler, has more useable power down low and IMO looks better. Stock for stock the s2000 will outhandle the rx8. And im sure after identical mods it will still take the top spot.