Good platform. Handling prowess is on par with it's predecessor. Like most rotaries in the known universe, the engine is a boat anchor. Mazda offered to replace the engines under 100k miles as an attempt to save their reputation. Most rx8s did have their engines replaced.... at least once. I guarantee if you ask whoever is selling an rx8 if it has the original engine they will say no followed by some "but this engine is better" comfort story. Notorious flooder, there's even a protocol for how to shut it off without flooding it or what to do when it floods. I would have no interest at all in buying one with intention of driving it with a rotary engine unless it had less than 100k miles, so it's covered on the engine replacement. Under powered annoyingly slow car stock. The pathetic engine really hides how great of a car it actually is.
Theyre cheap and affordable because of the junk engine. Good chance of finding one for 3-4k with a blown engine. Ls1 swap is an available option.