Mazda officially launched the oddball in 2003, just one year after the great officially died in Japan. But whereas the RX-7's stature has only grown to near-mythic status in the past few years, the RX-8 died a grisly death in 2012, and few people have seemed to miss it since. But that doesn’t mean it wasn’t a fascinating car.

Now, we have talked about of the wonderful, reliable, never-recalled RX-8 before. We’ve also detailed .

I’ve always wondered why big-power rotary tuners always picked older engines from the last RX-7…

I think it’s fair to say that tightening emissions regulations coupled with the increased efficiency of small-displacement, turbocharged piston engines () really helped kill off the rotary engine at Mazda. That and the Great Recession, plus reliability issues leading to expensive warranty claims.

But I don’t think you can take that in without acknowledging that the RX-8, and as it was, can be left without any blame.

But what we haven’t discussed is what it felt like to buy this car, own it, run it, and quietly convince yourself that “I’m glad I didn’t buy a 350Z. VQ engines sound terrible,” while you .

Maybe you bought one new and were surprised to find that rotary life wasn’t made for you. Maybe you scooped one up for a few grand a few years ago and it refuses to die despite your best efforts. Maybe you always used the rear suicide doors, maybe you welded them shut for your budget drag build. Whatever it is, we want to hear from you!

Even better if you can include a photo in the comments, along with your story about what went right (or wrong) with your pride and joy.