FINALLY - MAZDA WILL reveal the production version of the rotary-engined RX-8 sports coupe at the Tokyo Motor Show exactly two years since the car was first revealed as a concept for the next big thing in sports cars.

The Japanese has tested public reaction to the concept at motor shows around the world during the last two years and has received enthusiastic support for the four-door, four-seat sports model with distinctive freestyle doors.

President Mark Fields had stated throughout 2001 that Mazda was very keen to put the RX-8 into production. The company is now aiming to do this by the end of 2002 to add another special model to the long line of distinctive and exciting sports cars, which have been produced by Mazda. There have been many that have stood the test of time, such as the first-generation Cosmo Sport, the RX-7 and the MX-5.

The front-midship layout is further enhanced by RENESIS, the next-generation rotary engine. Naturally aspirated, the RENESIS is smaller and lighter than Mazda’s previous turbo rotary engine (13B-REW), and it is only 338mm high, the same as the transmission.

FACTS
· Mazda RX-8 concept car into production
· Launch the Tokyo Motor Show
· 4-seater sports car
· Rotary engine
· 250 HP at 8500 rpm
· 216 Nm at 7500 rpm
· Rear-wheel drive, propeller shaft made of carbon fibre
· 50:50 weight distribution and low centre of gravity
· 225/45ZR18 tyres


Images
Yellow RX-8: This is how the production RX-8 will look. Interior from the concept car shown at IAA Frankfurt Motor Show, September 2001.

Besides: Have a look at the concept car at page 20 in the Frankfurt Motor Show Special under the menu test & news.