i would say you would need a owner of each car to give you a true idea of what goes on between them...

I am currently an owner of a 04 rx8... I truely enjoy everything that the car gives me. It was so much fun in the stock form I sold a potentially 350 + whp car to concentrate on the 8. It loves to be reved and has been reliable ever since I have owned it.

First thing I would look at is "what are you going to do with the car (dd, autox, road course, street driving)"?
Second, do you like to modify cars?
Third, How much money do you have to spend on the car?

The rx8 i own is very sporty handles very well (although I am trying to get it to handle better) and has a great brake system. We have one of the best rotary guys in the country working out of largo, fl (www.mazsport.net). As much as everyone says there isn't an aftermarket for it simply doesn't know anything about the rx8 (It may not have all the bs copy cat companies out there that reproduce Honda parts but there are plenty of aftermarket companies). The RX8 is a very fun car to drive and the only one who can determine which car you should get is you. We can spout off as many personal prefrences as we want the fact is if you make a decision on a vehicle based on other peoples opinions you are making a mistake.

Now I will not lie to you and tell you that the RX8 isnt finiky becuase it is. At the same time the whole technology is amazing. Oh and don't premix the 8 you will clog your fuel pump sock...