1997 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · R341 DAA

The vehicle presents a stable and exceptionally clean MOT history, with the most recent test on 13 September 2023 resulting in a pass with no defects recorded. This follows a consistent pattern of clean passes in September 2022 and August 2021. The absence of any advisories across these three tests suggests a high standard of preventative maintenance or a vehicle in remarkably preserved condition for its age. The mileage remains low for a 29-year-old car, averaging roughly 5,400 miles per year. Between the August 2021 test at 152,706 miles and the September 2023 test at 156,612 miles, the car covered only 3,906 miles over two years. This low annual usage indicates the car may have spent significant periods stationary, which can lead to different wear patterns than those seen in high-mileage examples. Despite the clean record, the current date of 9 August 2026 means the last recorded MOT is nearly three years old. A buyer must verify if the vehicle has been tested since September 2023 or if it has been stored. Long-term inactivity often causes brake discs to corrode or calipers to seize, and rubber components like suspension bushes and tyre sidewalls can perish regardless of mileage. A physical inspection should prioritise the chassis and sills for corrosion, as the MOT record does not provide a detailed structural health report beyond the pass result. Check for signs of moisture ingress in the cabin and verify the operation of all electrical systems. Given the low usage since 2021, a fresh oil change and a thorough check of the braking system are recommended to ensure the car is roadworthy after its period of apparent dormancy.