1997 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · P736 KOO

The vehicle presents a stable roadworthiness profile following a period of clean inspections. The most recent MOT test on 30 May 2025 at 88,792 miles passed with no defects recorded, following a technical failure just one day prior. This suggests the current owner is proactive in rectifying minor issues to ensure the vehicle meets legal standards. Since the 2023 failure, the car has maintained a clean record without advisories, indicating a consistent level of mechanical and structural upkeep. The mileage pattern is exceptionally low for a 29-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 3,062 miles per year over its lifetime. Data from the last three years shows a period of very low use between May 2023 and May 2024, where the car covered only 642 miles in twelve months. While this low mileage suggests less wear on the engine and drivetrain components, it often leads to the degradation of rubber-based seals and fluids due to periods of inactivity. The jump from 87,970 miles in May 2024 to 88,792 miles in May 2025 indicates a return to regular seasonal usage. Given the age and the specific model, a buyer must prioritize a physical inspection of the structural integrity despite the clean MOT history. The MX-5 generation is prone to corrosion in the sills, floor pans, and rear wheel arches, which can sometimes hide beneath surface cleanliness. The buyer should also check for perished suspension bushes and cracked rubber components, which frequently fail on low-mileage vehicles that sit stationary. Testing the brake system for seized calipers or degraded lines is essential to ensure the lack of use has not caused oxidation on the discs and cylinders.