I owned one before my 350Z, I had the 230 one and I loved driving it and just being inside it, but not as quick as I thought it would be, so anyways the rotor tips ended up going on mine after 2-3 months of ownership, which requires an engine re build! Got quoted £3000+ for one....but didnt end up doing it and sold it. I guess if its well looked after in its previous history than they would last longer, im pretty sure the newer models dont have this problem E.G. R3. Handled great and sounded nice
MPG was worse than my 350Z, quite noticeably as well, theyre great cars its a shame about the running costs and lack of performance.
Tell him to get over to RX8 owners club forum, lots of great info on there!