1997 Mazda MX-5 1.6L Petrol · R861 AWO
1997 Mazda MX-5 (1.6L, petrol). First registered 01 Aug 1997. Recorded mileage 72,667 miles. MOT expired on 03 Mar 2025.
- Make & Model
- MAZDA MX-5
- Year / Origin
- 1997 · Reading
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 03 Mar 2025
- Road Tax
- Untaxed (01 Oct 2025)
- Recorded Mileage
- 72,667 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 1.6L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
R861 AWO Key Findings
- 2 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 04/03/2024
- 72,667 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: Average
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.
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R861 AWO Mileage History
- 01/09/202272,654 mi
- 04/03/202472,667 mi+13 mi
Average of roughly 9 miles per year across 2 recorded odometer readings.
R861 AWO MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
2 MOT tests are recorded for this 1997 Mazda Mx-5 (R861 AWO) between September 2022 and March 2024.
The record contains 2 passes and 0 failures.
No failures or advisories appear anywhere in the recorded tests, so the documented MOT record is relatively clean.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
A strong contender for enthusiasts, this 1997 Mazda MX-5 shows a clean recent MOT history. Proceed with caution regarding age-related corrosion, but the recorded mileage is exceptionally low for a vehicle of this age.
When viewing this specific 1997 model, your primary focus should be on the chassis and underside. While the recent MOTs passed without defects, the aggregate data for the MX-5 shows that corrosion is a top failure reason. Check the sills, wheel arches, and subframes thoroughly for any signs of structural decay.
Additionally, because this is a classic roadster, inspect the suspension components. The aggregate data highlights suspension arms and coil springs as common failure points for this model. Ensure there are no knocks or bangs when driving over uneven surfaces, and verify that the soft top is in good condition and free from leaks.
Running costs for a 1.6L petrol MX-5 are generally moderate. Fuel economy will be typical for a small-displacement sports car of this era, and insurance groups for a 1997 model are often manageable, though driver age and profile will impact the final premium.
Maintenance costs can vary; while basic servicing is straightforward, specialist parts for older Mazdas can occasionally carry a premium. Expect annual running costs to be influenced by the need for preventative maintenance on suspension and rubber components due to the vehicle's age.
Given the MOT history, there are no specific defects to trace on this individual car, but you must inspect for the common issues identified in the wider MX-5 data. Specifically, look for signs of corrosion, which is a leading cause of failure for this model.
Check the suspension system closely, looking for worn bushes or damaged coil springs. Since the last recorded mileage was 72,667 in 2024, also check the age and condition of the tyres and brake discs to ensure they are appropriate for the vehicle's age and usage patterns.
This 1.6L green MX-5 has covered 72,667 miles since its first registration in August 1997. The MOT history for the most recent two tests shows no defects recorded, which is a positive indicator for its recent roadworthiness. Given the model's aggregate data, this vehicle's mileage is significantly lower than the average annual mileage seen across the wider sample.
Aggregate data for the Mazda MX-5 shows an 81.4% MOT pass rate, with corrosion and suspension components being the most frequent reasons for failure.
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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