1991 Mazda MX-5 1.6L Petrol · H243 JDE

The 1991 Mazda MX‑5 is currently roadworthy; the most recent MOT on 2025‑09‑01 recorded a pass with no defects at 160 407 miles. The vehicle’s maintenance trend shows improvement after two consecutive failures in August and September 2023, both recorded at essentially the same mileage (157 468–157 469 miles) with no defects noted. Subsequent tests in September 2023 and September 2024 returned passes, indicating that any issues were resolved and the car has remained defect‑free since. Mileage accumulation for a 35‑year‑old vehicle is low, averaging roughly 4 583 miles per year. The early 2023 period shows minimal mileage change between the two tests (a single mile), but the gap to the next test in September 2024 jumps to 609 miles, and the final year to 2025 adds 2 297 miles. This recent increase suggests the car has been used more heavily in the past twelve months, though the overall figure remains modest for its age. A buyer should inspect the suspension bushes and coil springs for wear, as the low‑mileage profile does not guarantee that components have not been neglected. Check the brake discs and calipers for binding or uneven wear; the two back‑to‑back failures in 2023, despite no recorded defects, may indicate intermittent brake issues that were not captured in the test report. Examine the chassis and underbody for corrosion, especially around wheel arches and the exhaust mountings, as age‑related rust can develop independently of mileage. Tyre tread depth and wiper blade condition should also be verified, as these consumables are not reflected in MOT defect logs. Overall, the vehicle presents a solid maintenance trajectory, but a thorough pre‑purchase inspection is essential to confirm that the suspension, braking system, and structural integrity are free from hidden deterioration.