1998 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · R502 BOA
1998 Mazda MX-5 (1.8L, petrol). First registered 01/04/1998. Recorded mileage 48,431 miles. MOT valid until 11/08/2027. Taxed until 01/04/2027.
- Make & Model
- MAZDA MX-5
- Year / Origin
- 1998 · Reading
- MOT Status
- Valid until 11/08/2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01/04/2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 48,431 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 1.8L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- PETROL
- Year
- 1998
- Engine
- 1840cc
R502 BOA Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 12/08/2026
- 48,431 miles recorded at latest MOT
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Excellent
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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R502 BOA Mileage History
- 04/08/202245,787 mi
- 11/08/202346,630 mi+843 mi
- 08/08/202447,144 mi+514 mi
- 13/08/202547,857 mi+713 mi
- 12/08/202648,431 mi+574 mi
Average of roughly 657 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
R502 BOA MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 1998 Mazda Mx-5 (R502 BOA) between August 2022 and August 2026.
The record contains 5 passes and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 2 advisory notices note items to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Tyres (1 issue), Suspension (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 2 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
This is a highly attractive prospect for
Given the very low annual usage, your primary focus should be on whether the vehicle has been stored undercover and if it has received regular oil changes despite the low mileage. Low-mileage cars can sometimes suffer from 'dry rot' in rubber components or seals due to lack of use; check the age of the tyres and the condition of the soft top carefully.
When negotiating, ask for evidence of any recent service or fluid changes, as the MOT history alone does not confirm mechanical maintenance. Because the 2022 MOT noted misting on the N/S/F shock absorbers, it is worth checking that these were replaced or that the misting has not returned, even though no defect was noted in the 2023-2026 tests.
The 1.8L petrol engine is relatively economical for a sports car, though real-world figures will depend on driving style. As a 1998 model, tax and insurance groups are generally manageable, though insurance can be higher for MX-5s depending on the driver's profile and the vehicle's use.
Maintenance costs for this model can vary; while parts are widely available, specialist upkeep for a classic convertible can add to the budget. Expect an estimated annual running cost of approximately £900-£1,200, covering fuel, tax, insurance, and a budget for routine maintenance.
Start by inspecting the underside for signs of corrosion, which is a top failure reason for this model according to aggregate data. Even though this specific vehicle has no recorded corrosion failures, it is a known vulnerability for the MX-5.
Specifically, revisit the 2022 MOT advisory regarding the N/S/F shock absorber misting. Visually inspect the dampers for any signs of oil leakage. Additionally, check the condition of all four tyres; while the 2022 test noted they were worn on the edges, ensure they have been replaced and are not currently showing uneven wear patterns.
This 1998 silver Mazda MX-5 is a remarkably low-mileage example, having covered only 48,431 miles in nearly 28 years. While the 2022 MOT highlighted some maintenance items regarding shock absorbers and tyre wear, the subsequent three tests have passed with no defects. The vehicle's mileage is significantly lower than the model average, making it a standout candidate for this specific generation.
The Mazda MX-5 has an 81.6% average MOT pass rate across 108,806 analysed vehicles, with common issues including exhaust, corrosion, and headlamps.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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