2004 Mazda RX-8 overview and factory equipment Powertrain and performance - Engine: 1.3L R2 rotary (Renesis) rated at 238 hp and 159 lb-ft of torque. The rotary design delivers a high-revving powerband and smooth, linear throttle response distinct from conventional piston engines. - Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive layout for a more balanced, sporty feel. - Transmissions: 6-speed manual transmission was the factory performance choice; a 4-speed automatic was offered as the alternative. - Chassis and suspension: Sport-oriented suspension tuning with independent front and rear suspension components and a low center of gravity engineered to emphasize handling and responsiveness. - Brakes and wheels: Four-wheel disc brakes were standard; the RX-8 rode on alloy wheels sized by trim (17-inch wheels were typical on base models) fitted with performance tires. Exterior features - Unique four-door coupe body with rear-hinged freestyle back doors providing easier access to rear seats while maintaining a coupe profile. - Frameless door glass on the front doors for a cleaner, sporty appearance. - Aerodynamic styling with a long hood and short deck; integrated front and rear bumpers and distinctive Mazda RX design cues. - Standard halogen headlamps (higher-trim packages and options included upgraded lighting and fog lamps). - Body-color heated side mirrors and power mirrors were part of the factory equipment mix depending on trim. - Exterior paint and trim finished to factory specifications, with multiple color options available from new. Interior and comfort - Seating for four with two front sport bucket seats and two smaller rear seats; front seats were contoured for lateral support during spirited driving. - Cloth upholstery was standard; leather seating surfaces were available as a factory option on higher trims. - 60/40 split-folding rear seats to increase cargo flexibility. - Driver-oriented cockpit with a low seating position, a center console that runs forward into the dash, and a sporty steering wheel design. - Manual climate controls and air conditioning were standard; some trims offered automatic climate control as an option. - Power windows and power door locks with remote keyless entry were standard equipment. - Tilt steering wheel and adjustable driver seating to help achieve a comfortable driving position. - Factory audio: AM/FM stereo with single-disc CD player and a multi-speaker sound system (auxiliary connectivity was not common on factory radios in 2004; upgraded audio systems and multi-disc changers were available as options). Instrumentation and controls - Driver-focused instrument cluster with prominently placed tachometer and speedometer designed to emphasize the RX-8s rev-oriented performance characteristics. - Center console controls grouped for logical access to audio and climate functions. - Standard convenience items such as illuminated vanity mirrors, overhead lighting and multiple storage compartments and cupholders. Safety