Have driven both they are very differnet cars for different drivers.

If you want an engaging drive with sharp handling, but perhaps hard work to drive having to keep revs high then the RX-8 is for you.

If you want a softer ride with slighly compromised handling to give a better cruising comfort, but with more power on tap throughout the range the the Xfire is yours.

In the UK we have a lot of sharp handling sports cars and being honest the xfire is tuned for the american market and is a bit soft for UK tastes. But and its a big one the xfire is without doubt the best combination of style / power and handling package for the money.

If you want an out and out sports car look elsewhere, if you want a competent powerfull cruising coupe then step right up