1997 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · P167 DCN

The most recent MOT, dated 1 December 2022 at 137,007 miles, resulted in a pass with no recorded defects. That clean outcome, matched by a similarly clear pass on 10 November 2021 at 131,108 miles, points to a stable maintenance trend across the last two recorded inspections. There is no evidence of worsening mechanical condition or recurring advisory items, and the vehicle has presented for each test in a compliant state. The mileage history spans roughly 5,899 miles between the two tests, over a period of about 13 months. That equates to around 5,450 miles per year, which is slightly above the car's lifetime average of roughly 4,724 miles per year. For a 29-year-old MX-5 at 137,007 miles, the overall figure is light by age, but the recent interval shows this car is still being used regularly rather than left to stand. The two-entry record is sparse, yet its cleanliness is a positive signal. Given the known susceptibility of this generation of Mazda MX-5 to structural corrosion, particularly in the sills, rear wheel arches, and chassis rails, a clean MOT should not be the final word. The lack of recorded corrosion advisories is encouraging, but a buyer should inspect these areas in person for hidden rust, underseal masking, or previous repairs of poor quality. The test history does not flag suspension bushes, coil springs, or binding calipers, which suggests consumable wear has stayed within limits, but with a car of this age, expect that rubber and braking components may be near the end of their service life regardless of the last test.