3 ms·
What killed the rx-8 is emissions. Wankel engines are very similar to 2-cycle piston engines. Both 2-cycle and Wankel burn oil in order to lubricate their seal
by 20after4 4y ago
What killed the rx-8 is emissions. Wankel engines are very similar to 2-cycle piston engines. Both 2-cycle and Wankel burn oil in order to lubricate their seals. Very difficult to do that and also meet current emissions standards.
The second generation NA 13b engine was probably the most reliable / longest lasting wankel. Easily could go 200k miles without a rebuild. The Rx-8 rarely makes it past 150k due to insufficient lubrication which was required to meet ~2010 emissions standards.
Source: Experience. I've owned five rx-7s and two rx-8s, maintained them myself for the past 23 years.
- post_break 4y ago"Source: Experience. I've owned five rx-7s and two rx-8s, maintained them myself for the past 23 years." Would you describe the past 23 years as self torture or did you actually enjoy the process? The only rotary I'd want is some ridiculous 4 router putting down enough horsepower to make me wet myself, and even then I'd probably sell it before I'd need to do maintenance on it.
- 20after4 4y agoMy 2nd gen RX-7s were a joy to own and not at all difficult to maintain. They lack all creature comforts and practicality, they are loud, not fuel efficient but a lot of fun to drive. The RX-8 is much more refined and actually quite practical except for the even worse fuel efficiency - 16-18mpg just doesn't make sense when my Hyundai gets 45-52mpg.