Originally Posted by mrobinso
Doesn't the RX-8 have a 4-cylinder rotary engine? I read a review that said despite producing high output for the engine it kills the gas mileage. I think it was like 18-19 mpg. For a little car like that I would expect more. I have always liked the looks of the RX8 however, though it could probably due to lose the back seat--but in a pinch I guess it would do the job.
Rotary engines don't have "cylinders". They're more analgous to having "little pockets" where the fuel & air is mixwed. I you wanted to think a rotary motor had "cylinders," then they have about 700 2cc cylinders that the apex seals slide across in I guess one would call a gyrograph kind of way?? (the toy that you'd stick a pencil in and it'd draw circles.
Rotary motors are very efficient as far as space vs. power. A 2.0L rotary can make 300HP easy, it's just that they burn oil and are rather complex. Probably why they don't enjoy market share like reciprocating engines both gas & diesel.
Justin