2004 Mazda RX-8

First Place: 2004 Mazda RX-8
Unconventional thinking has its rewards. You'd be hardpressed to find anything conventional about the Mazda RX-8, and it turns out that's a good thing. Engine, steering, styling, and packaging are all unique.

To start with, the miniscule (by comparison) 1.3-liter twin-rotor engine produces an astounding 182 horsepower per liter, outpunching cars like the Porsche 911 and Ferrari Modena in specific output. We only wish it were more fuel-efficient at that size, as it earns the poorest (but only slightly) EPA mileage numbers here. What the engine does, however, is rev and produce power like an electric motor. So smooth and linear is the power delivery that Mazda installed a shift tone to remind the driver the engine is approaching the 9000-rpm rev limiter.

With such even torque delivery and so linear a horsepower curve, it's easy to imagine limitless engine revs. This is where the RX-8 and the similarly revvy S2000 differ. Even at 8500 rpm, there's nothing to indicate the RX-8's engine is strained or that power will ever cease, except for that reminder tone.

Power is routed through a tight, close-ratio six-speed transmission and a carbon-fiber composite driveshaft from the front-mid engine to the rear torque-sensing limited-slip differential. The engine, transmission, driveshaft, and rear end are all precisely located in a straight line to eliminate driveline vibration and noise. The 50/50 weight distribution shines in transient maneuvers like our slalom test. Further enhancing this well-connected feel, Mazda developed a new rack-drive electric power-steering unit. Unlike other electric steering aids, the RX-8's electric-assist motor is located within the steering rack itself and is neither artificially light-feeling nor laboriously notchy.

One might assume that the gaping hole formed by the pillarless double-door opening in each side of the RX-8 would translate into a wobbly chassis. Mazda has spent considerable time and effort to avoid this problem, using construction techniques including a rigid backbone frame, in-door high-strength steel pillars, and an innovative V-shaped brace extending from the rear end to the rear shock towers. There's also a full complement of front-, front/side-, and head-curtain airbags to ensure crashworthiness. Further, the Mazda rides quietly and happily in traffic and at the limit.