Teresa’s View: ‘Wahoo, get out of my way’

Well, zoom-zoom is right. Goodness, this is a fun car to drive. With its unique rotary engine, the RX-8 is a road-hugging monster with a downright dirty purr. Most driving aficionados sound like wine snobs when they describe the experience. “Responsive, well-balanced and exhilarating,” they say. I say, “Wahoo, get out of my way!”

There’s some history with the RX-8. Enthusiasts still speak in hushed tones about the legendary RX-7, a car that was removed from the rolls in 1995. Reintroduced in 2004 with much fanfare, it’s the rotary engine that gets these devotees revved up. The RX-8 is the only mass-produced vehicle in the United States with such an engineering marvel.

What seems to irritate purists — and there’s always something — is the number of doors and seats — four of each instead of the original two. Mazda chose to inject some practicality into the mix, with varied results. The rear doors work like many of the ones on extended cab trucks. The handle on the inside doorsill opens the doors via a rear hinge. On the plus side, it’s a whole lot easier to get into and out of the back seat. Unfortunately, it’s so dark and deep back there, passengers may feel as if they’ve entered the Bat Cave.

Although I like driving the RX-8, it’s not classically handsome, but rather occasionally cute in the right light — more Jude Law than George Clooney.

What Is It?: The RX-8 is offered with a four-speed automatic transmission, 197 horsepower and a $25K list price, or as a 238-hp version with a six-speed manual gearbox, sport suspension and larger tires for a cool $27K.

Gadget Rating: 5.5 out of 10. Comfort features include air conditioning, cruise control, four cupholders, power windows, mirrors and door locks. The standard audio system includes a CD player and six speakers. An optional Grand Touring Kit upgrades the sound system to a Bose, and upholstery to leather.

Safety: A 24-hour roadside assistance plan is standard. There’s also a loaner program for no extra fee. Anti-lock brakes plus front, side and side curtain airbags also are included on every RX-8. Traction control and anti-skid systems are available as option packages.

Trivia: Before the RX-7, Mazda sold the RX-2, RX-3 and RX-4 — all with rotary engines.

The Cheat Sheet: Mazda is a member of the Ford family.

So, Where Are Ya From?: The RX-8 is assembled in Hiroshima, Japan.