Mazda RX8 First Generation

The first version of the RX8, the SE3P, produced from model years 2003 to 2008, is powered by the 13B-MSP Wankel type Renesis rotary 1.3 liter engine (twin 654 cc rotors) which, when coupled with a six-speed manual transmission, will typically produce 237 hp at 8200 rpm.  The Mazda RX8 Renesis Multi Side Port engine shows greatly improved fuel efficiency and emission improvement over the RX-7's engine.

In May 2006 Mazda released the RX8 PZ for the UK market. The car was jointly developed with the motorsports company Prodrive. Only available in six-speed manual, it featured custom 10-spoke alloy wheels supplied by Italian F1 team supplier OZ Racing in Dark Silver finish, aftermarket mirrors developed to reduce drag, front and rear black mesh grilles, and a rear spoiler to provide more stability at higher speeds. Both the alloys and rear wing are badged in carbon fiber with "Prodrive". Significant revisions were also made to the suspension to improve the handling: dampers from Bilstein and coil springs from Eibach are used in addition to reducing the ride height by 0.6 in and an increase in spring rate of 60%. Finally the car is supplied with a unique upgraded twin exhaust system, with exhaust tailpipes branded "Prodrive". Only 800 were made and was available in two colors, Galaxy Grey  and Brilliant Black.

At the 2004 North American International Auto Show, Mazda unveiled the RX8 Hydrogen RE concept car, designed to run on either hydrogen or gasoline. In February 2006, Mazda revealed that it would start leasing a dual fuel RX8 to commercial customers in Japan, and in March 2006 announced its first two customers, claiming the first fleet deliveries of a dual hydrogen/gasoline production car.