Hey everyone! I’ve recently become the proud owner of a Series 2 Mazda RX-8, and I’m looking to keep the Velocity Red paint looking as pristine as possible. Currently, I don’t have a dedicated garage spot, so the car is sitting out in the driveway. I’m starting to get a bit paranoid about the intense UV rays and the occasional bird dropping ruining the finish, especially on the hood and the rear wing.
I’ve tried a couple of those cheap, universal-fit covers from local auto shops, but they never seem to sit right. They’re always too baggy around the RX-8’s unique flared wheel arches, and I’m worried that if the wind picks up, the loose fabric will just end up scratching the clear coat. I really need something that is custom-contoured to the RX-8's specific shape.
Ideally, I’m looking for something breathable so moisture doesn't get trapped against the body, but heavy-duty enough to provide a bit of a cushion against light hail or debris. Since these rotaries run so hot, a material that handles heat well would also be a huge plus. Does anyone here have a specific brand or custom-fit model they’ve used on their 8 that they’d actually recommend?
Ok so I totally agree with the above! Custom fits are basically mandatory for the 8 because of those flared fenders. I've spent way too much time researching the car cover market lol, and here is what I've found:
1. **Breathability vs. Protection**: In my experience, you gotta find a balance. If it's too thick, it traps heat from the rotary; if it's too thin, bird junk soaks through.
2. **Brand Comparison**: While California Car Cover is great, I'd also look into SealSkin or Budge. They have different tiers of heavy-duty fabrics that handle UV way better than those local shop ones.
3. **Why custom matters**: Basically, generic covers act like a sail. A snug fit means the fabric won't vibrate against your Velocity Red paint when it gets windy.
Honestly, just get any outdoor-rated custom option from SealSkin or a high-end Budge and you'll be set. It really depends on your needs but those brands are solid. GL!
yo, i feel u on the velocity red... literally the best color but so hard to keep perfect!! In my experience, choosing between a generic cover and a custom one is a no-brainer. The cheap ones always flap in the wind and basically sand down your clear coat, which is a nightmare on those flared arches. Honestly, I've tried many over the years and the one I got recently is a total game changer cuz it's actually tailored to the S2 body. It handles the heat from the rotary way better too. Seriously, just go custom or dont even bother!!! gl with the new ride haha
Ok so I totally agree with the above! Custom fits are basically mandatory for the 8 because of those flared fenders. I've spent way too much time researching the car cover market lol, and here is what I've found:
1. **Breathability vs. Protection**: In my experience, you gotta find a balance. If it's too thick, it traps heat from the rotary; if it's too thin, bird junk soaks through.
2. **Brand Comparison**: While California Car Cover is great, I'd also look into SealSkin or Budge. They have different tiers of heavy-duty fabrics that handle UV way better than those local shop ones.
3. **Why custom matters**: Basically, generic covers act like a sail. A snug fit means the fabric won't vibrate against your Velocity Red paint when it gets windy.
Honestly, just get any outdoor-rated custom option from SealSkin or a high-end Budge and you'll be set. It really depends on your needs but those brands are solid. GL!
Same setup here, love it
Seconding the recommendation above. Honestly, generic covers are a disaster for RX-8s cuz those wide fenders basically act like sandpaper if the fit isn't perfect. I learned the hard way with a cheapo cover that hazyed up my clear coat in under a month. Not cool.
If you want the absolute best technical spec for high UV and heat, I'd go with the Covercraft Custom Fit WeatherShield HP Car Cover. It's super breathable which is a must since rotaries hold that engine bay heat forever—you don't want to trap that moisture. It's also thin enough to wash in a home machine but pretty durable against debris. If you're really worried about hail tho, maybe look at the Covercraft Evolution Custom Car Cover. It's way thicker and has a 4-layer fabric that provides a decent cushion, but unfortunately, it's bulkier to store. I've used both and the WeatherShield is my pick for daily driveway use. Just make sure the car is clean before you throw it on!! gl!
In my experience, you don't actually need to drop a fortune to protect that paint. Over the years, I've found that going with any custom-fit cover from California Car Cover Co. is basically the gold standard for RX-8s. They actually account for the wide fenders so you dont get that sandpaper effect. Just make sure you get one of their breathable outdoor fabrics--honestly, it's a total lifesaver for keeping moisture away from the clear coat! gl!