| The overriding exterior design theme of the Mazda RX-8 is ‘Athletic Tension’. This approach was used to convey a feeling of expectation or pent-up energy ready to be released, like an athlete waiting for the starter’s gun. The design team focused on weight reduction, aerodynamics and modern proportioning, while shaping the car to evoke three main attributes; dynamic form, tension and stability. The most distinctive feature of the RX-8’s design is its dynamic body. The dynamic form is evident in the powerful continuity of surfaces and is expressed in 3-dimensional relief, starting at the front air intake and running aft, along the body sides to the boot lid. The effect of vitality and motion is achieved through the sculpted surfaces of the body rather than 2-dimensional character lines. From every angle, the RX-8 gives the impression of a high-performance car - aggressive, yet stylish and original.
Tension is expressed by trimming body mass to produce an extremely taut form. With the elegance of an athlete, RX-8 also features mechanical overtones in the headlamp and rear combination lamp design. The rotor-shaped power bulge in the hood and subtle shaping in the roof work in contrast to convey an overall feeling of tension on the body surface. The entire body is sleek and trim, with smooth, taut lines that suggest the alert readiness of an athlete in peak condition. In particular, the front fenders and door panels have a pronounced 3-dimensional form unseen in other cars, giving a lean and powerfully muscular impression. Stability is the basis of good sports car design. The compact-looking cabin comes together with the pronounced, aggressive front fenders to shift visual mass downwards, creating low-slung proportions that communicate a feeling of great stability. The feeling of stability is determined by the balance between the body and cabin, and the position of the wheels. To determine the optimal cabin size for the RX-8, designers went through a repeated trial-and-error process as they sought to strike the ideal balance between cabin volume and field-of-view. Then, while assuring the right amount of space for four adults, they worked to achieve an extremely compact look for the cabin. The combination of compact cabin and powerful body created the low-slung proportions that translate into a look of stability that is essential in a sports car. |
  
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