What?? I thought you got the 8 back? What happened now??
I took it back when Burlington Mazda said it would be two weeks to order the new rack from Japan. I just didn't buy their solution - a brand new rack went in just a year ago.
So...I took it Oakville Mazda. Their conclusion (after a week) was that the power module that controls the steering rack was also bad...so they are replacing the power module AND the rack. They've had it for 2 weeks now. 
Essentially, I've been without my car for more than a month...and when I've had it, there's been no electric assist.
I was totally prepared to buy the Mustang if the steering was better...thus the disappointment when it wasn't. At least the power assist worked on the 'Stang!
Ahhhh yes, you've fallen into the same sort of rut I have. Once you have a car that has "perfect" something, you use it as a yardstick to measure all other cars. In your case, it's the great steering and sprite handling of the RX-8. Although I suspect the steering in the Stang isn't bad at all...compared to the 8, it must suck.
It's the same for me after owning the Supra. Everything feels "lesser".
I feel as though it's a curse, as I am less able to appreciate some good cars because they don't stack up to my expectations after owning something as good as the Supra was.
I know the feeling...and sorta feel sorry for you.
