We've seen what we believe to be the freshened 2008 Mazda RX-8, but we can't help but wish a convertible version was in the picture. Apparently, Mazda's staff in Japan felt the same way, and built themselves a one-off drop-top RX-8. Spotted during a traditional bon voyage party for its first shipment of 2008 vehicles was this striking white roadster. Yes, it is dolled up in some gawdy decorations and streamers, but it's our first - and only - look at a car that Mazda won't build.

(Click through for this one-off drop-top)

Speculation is that this is nothing less than a parade car, a special one-off used for corporate executives and VIPs to make their way through various special events. Such was the case at this ceremony; two officials, wearing pristine white gloves, hung on to the roll bar while sitting on what appears to be the tonneau cover.

It's been a while since we've seen a factory-built RX roadster (1991 for the U.S. market RX-7), and we can't help but like what we see here. Although we doubt it'll be introduced into the RX-8 catalog any time soon, perhaps a 'vert would fit into Mazda's plans for the RX-9.

If you know anything more on this rotary roadster, or have thoughts on whether Mazda should revive the drop-top RX, let us know in the comments section below.

+ AutoBlog: Mazda RX-8 Convertible