Perhaps better known to some as Dr. “McDreamy” from the popular TV drama Grey’s Anatomy, Patrick Dempsey also is an accomplished racer who recently proved he knows more than a thing or two about operating a high-performance Mazda RX-8. Dempsey, who fielded a two-car team in this year’s grueling 2011 Rolex 24 at Daytona race, helped pilot an RX-8 that finished in third place in the GT Class of the 24-hour endurance classic—the highest finish of any Mazda in the event. Dempsey’s co-drivers were Tom Long, Joe Foster and Charles Espenlaub.
It was another sterling effort for Mazda motorsports, and a further reminder of the “zoom-zoom” performance that comes standard with every Mazda vehicle that’s sold in this country, including the RX-8.
Today’s RX-8 is the latest to carry Mazda’s innovative rotary-style engine, which combines compact dimensions with surprisingly responsive power: The Renesis powerplant in the 2011 model makes a robust 232 hp with a displacement of only 1.3 liters. The lightweight engine is a key enabler of the RX-8’s legendary handling, along with a performance-tuned suspension that boasts a double-wishbone setup with forged aluminum control arms up front, and a multi-link unit in the rear that features tubular control arms and aluminum-alloy hubs. Owners also can up the performance ante further by opting for the R3 package, adding firmer Bilstein shocks, a urethane-foam-injected front-suspension cross member and Recaro sport seats for the driver and front-seat passenger.
To follow Mazda’s latest racing news, you can visit the MAZDASPEED Motorsports page on Facebook; to lead the competition around the track yourself, you can check out the RX-8 at your local dealership.
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