1990 MAZDA MX-51.6L Petrol

The vehicle presents a stable but aging maintenance profile, having passed its most recent MOT on 27 May 2026 at 238,695 miles. While the car is currently roadworthy, a persistent oil leak has been noted in consecutive tests in May 2024, May 2025, and May 2026. This indicates a long-term, non-critical leak that remains present despite regular testing. The maintenance trend shows a shift from significant structural and mechanical failures in earlier years toward more minor consumable issues, suggesting the vehicle is being kept in a functional state despite its age. The mileage accumulation is consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 6,630 miles per year over its 36-year lifespan. The record shows steady usage, with the distance between the May 2025 test at 234,287 miles and the May 2026 test at 238,695 miles representing a typical annual interval. There are no significant gaps in the testing history between 2013 and 2026, which implies the vehicle has been in regular, documented use rather than sitting idle for extended periods. A prospective buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the chassis and structural integrity. The history reveals a long-standing pattern of corrosion, specifically affecting seat belt anchorages, sills, and inner wheel arches in 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017. Although the 2022 record mentions the underbody was coated, the recurring nature of these faults suggests that rust remains a primary concern for this vehicle. The buyer should also closely examine the suspension components, as the record shows multiple instances of worn bushes, ball joints, and deteriorated dust covers between 2022 and 2023. Further attention should be paid to the braking system and fluid leaks. The tester flagged a binding nearside front brake in 2017 and various corroded brake pipes and hoses in 2015. While these specific issues appear resolved in recent tests, the ongoing oil leak noted in the last three years warrants a close look at the engine and gearbox seals. Finally, check the condition of the tyres, as the record shows several instances where tyres were worn close to the legal limit or unevenly, particularly in 2022 and 2025.