5 Engines Worth Swapping into a Mazda RX-8

The Mazda RX-8, with its unique rotary engine, captured the hearts of car enthusiasts before it was discontinued in 2012. While it wasn’t without its quirks, including the often maligned 1.3-liter 13B rotary engine, the RX-8 still delivered a fantastic driving experience. However, as time has passed, many RX-8 owners have grown tired of the mechanical issues tied to the rotary engine, leading to an increase in engine swaps.

Engine swaps have become a popular solution for those looking to retain the RX-8’s sharp handling and sporty appeal without the downsides of the rotary engine. The following are five engine swaps worth considering for your RX-8, each bringing its own strengths and characteristics.

1. Honda K-Series Engine: High-Revving and Reliable

The Honda K-series engines, particularly the K20 and K24, are some of the most popular and reliable options for swapping into an RX-8. These engines, found in models like the Acura RSX and Honda Civic Type R, offer a smooth, high-revving experience that closely mirrors the spirited nature of the rotary engine.

Why Choose the K-Series Engine?

• Reliability: The K-series engines are known for their longevity. With proper maintenance, they can easily last for hundreds of thousands of miles, unlike the often finicky rotary engines.

• Performance Potential: With aftermarket support, the K20 and K24 engines can be modified to handle significant horsepower gains. This makes them suitable for those who want to keep the car’s performance up to modern standards.

• Availability and Affordability: Honda produced millions of vehicles with the K-series engines, making it easy to find a used engine at an affordable price.

• Swap Kits: The popularity of this swap means that there are ready-made kits available for the RX-8, which includes everything from clutch and flywheel kits to the necessary ECU and wiring harness to integrate the engine into the car’s systems.

The only downside is that you’ll lose the signature “brap-brap” sound of the rotary engine, but in exchange, you’ll get a more reliable, powerful engine that doesn’t require constant maintenance.

Summary of Engine Swaps for Mazda RX-8

2. Ford EcoBoost 2.3L Turbocharged Engine

For those seeking more power and torque, the Ford EcoBoost 2.3L turbocharged engine is an excellent choice. Originally designed for use in models like the Ford Mustang, this engine provides excellent low-end torque and performance.

Why Choose the EcoBoost Engine?

• Power and Torque: The turbocharged 2.3L engine offers substantial power gains over the stock rotary engine, making it an ideal choice for drivers seeking more grunt for street and track use.

• Turbocharged Performance: The turbocharged design gives the car excellent acceleration and pulling power, especially at lower RPMs.

• Fuel Efficiency: The EcoBoost engine is surprisingly fuel-efficient for a turbocharged engine, which can be a nice bonus over the thirsty rotary engine.

Considerations

• Complexity: Installing the EcoBoost engine is no simple task, and it will likely require custom fabrication for the engine mounts, exhaust system, and other components. However, its power and efficiency make it a worthwhile choice for those willing to put in the effort.

3. Chevrolet LS-Series V8 Engine

For those wanting to take the RX-8 to the extreme, swapping in a Chevrolet LS-series V8 is a bold, but highly rewarding choice. This engine has become the go-to option for engine swaps in countless sports cars, muscle cars, and even some Japanese imports.

Why Choose the LS V8 Engine?

• Unmatched Power: The LS-series engines, such as the LS1 and LS3, provide enormous power gains over the stock rotary. With tuning and modification, these engines can produce over 500 horsepower, providing thrilling performance.

• Aftermarket Support: There is a vast array of aftermarket parts for the LS-series engines, meaning that upgrades to intake, exhaust, and cooling systems are all readily available.

• Durability: The LS engine is renowned for its strength and ability to withstand heavy modifications, making it a great choice for performance enthusiasts.

Considerations

• Weight: The LS V8 is considerably heavier than the rotary engine, so the RX-8 will experience a change in weight distribution. This could affect handling dynamics, which might be a dealbreaker for purists.

• Custom Fabrication: This engine swap will require significant modifications, including custom mounts, a new transmission, and a new exhaust system.

4. Mazda’s 2.5L Skyactiv Engine

For those who wish to keep things within the Mazda family, the 2.5L Skyactiv engine offers a great balance between performance and efficiency. Originally designed for vehicles like the Mazda 6 and Mazda 3, the Skyactiv engine provides solid power while maintaining excellent fuel economy.

Why Choose the Skyactiv Engine?

• Efficiency: Known for its balance of power and fuel economy, the Skyactiv engine is a great daily-driver option.

• Smooth Power Delivery: The Skyactiv engine is naturally aspirated, providing a smooth power band throughout the rev range.

• Familiarity: Since the engine is from the same manufacturer, there is less worry about compatibility issues in terms of electronics and overall integration.

Considerations

• Performance: While the Skyactiv engine offers a nice balance of power, it may not provide the raw, high-revving excitement of a traditional rotary engine.

• Availability of Parts: While the engine is widely used in Mazda’s other models, the aftermarket support for the RX-8-specific swap may not be as developed as for other options.

5. Subaru EJ25 Boxer Engine

For those looking to switch up the RX-8’s powertrain with something unique, the Subaru EJ25 flat-four boxer engine offers an exciting option. Found in various Subaru models, including the WRX and the Outback, this engine brings a low center of gravity and distinctive rumbling sound.

Why Choose the EJ25 Engine?

• Low Center of Gravity: The boxer engine’s horizontally opposed design helps lower the car’s center of gravity, which can improve handling dynamics, especially in cornering.

• Turbocharged Options: If you’re after more power, the turbocharged variants of the EJ25, such as the one found in the Subaru WRX, can provide plenty of torque and horsepower.

• Distinct Sound: The unique rumble of the boxer engine can offer a new, yet equally satisfying, auditory experience compared to the rotary.

Considerations

• Complexity: Much like other engine swaps, the EJ25 engine will require a custom approach to fit it into the RX-8, including new engine mounts, transmission integration, and potentially a rework of the exhaust system.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Why would I swap the rotary engine in my RX-8?

A. The rotary engine in the RX-8 is known for its unique driving experience but also suffers from reliability issues, high oil consumption, and the need for frequent maintenance. Swapping to a more reliable engine can provide better longevity and performance.

Q. Which engine swap is the best for daily driving?

A. The Honda K-Series engine is often considered the best for daily driving, as it offers a good balance of reliability, fuel economy, and performance.

Q. How difficult is it to swap the LS V8 into an RX-8?

A. Swapping an LS V8 into an RX-8 is a complex task that requires custom mounts, a new transmission, and significant modifications. It’s best suited for enthusiasts with experience in major engine swaps.

Q. Will these engine swaps affect the handling of my RX-8?

A. Yes, especially with heavier engines like the LS V8. While swaps like the Subaru EJ25 boxer engine can help maintain or even improve handling due to its low center of gravity, others, like the LS V8, may affect the car’s balance.

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