MAZDA RX-8 (2006)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 999 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
76%
Total Tests (2024)
999
Avg Mileage
66,411 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,397
Is the 2006 MAZDA RX-8 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 6 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MAZDA brand average of 81%.
At 18 years old, 76% of MAZDA RX-8s from 2006 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 999 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 66,411 miles.
How does the 2006 MAZDA RX-8 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2006 MAZDA RX-8 has 66,411 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 133,200 miles for a 18-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a MAZDA RX-8?
The most reliable year is the 2010 model with a 85% MOT pass rate, while the 2004 model has the lowest at 73%. The 2006 sits between the two at 76%.
How much does a 2006 MAZDA RX-8 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MAZDA RX-8 by Year
Checking a specific MAZDA RX-8?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2006 MAZDA RX-8
The 2006 MAZDA RX-8 is a large car with a 2616cc petrol engine. 999 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2006, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 66,411 miles at 18 years old, MAZDA RX-8 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
2006 MAZDA RX-8 Fuel Costs
The 2616cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2006 MAZDA RX-8?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,397 (£200/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 76% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MAZDA RX-8 Reliability Trend
Newer MAZDA RX-8s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 3 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2006 MAZDA RX-8
At 18 years old, the MAZDA RX-8 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2010 model has the highest pass rate at 85%.
Alternatives to the 2006 MAZDA RX-8
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- AUDI TT (2007) 80% pass rate (+4%) from 17,399 tests
- SAAB 9-3 (2007) 76% pass rate (same) from 13,261 tests
- LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER SPORT (2008) 82% pass rate (+6%) from 11,439 tests
- MERCEDES E (2005) 78% pass rate (+2%) from 8,269 tests