1998 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · S905 DOJ
1998 Mazda MX-5 (1.8L, petrol). First registered 13 Aug 1998. Recorded mileage 41,600 miles. MOT expired on 30 May 2024. Currently declared SORN.
- Make & Model
- MAZDA MX-5
- Year / Origin
- 1998 · Glasgow
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 30 May 2024
- Road Tax
- SORN
- Recorded Mileage
- 41,600 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.8L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
S905 DOJ Key Findings
- 4 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 01/06/2023
- 41,600 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 2 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring tyres items (4 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
S905 DOJ MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
4 MOT tests are recorded for this 1998 Mazda Mx-5 (S905 DOJ) between May 2022 and June 2023.
The record contains 2 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 01 June 2023 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Tyres (4 issues), Suspension (4 issues), Windscreen (1 issue), Lighting (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 8 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.
Recorded failure items include: “Nearside Front Tyre(s) of different sizes are fitted on the same axle. (5.2.3 (b))”; “Front Windscreen wiper does not clear the windscreen effectively (3.4 (b) (ii))”.
S905 DOJ Mileage History
- 06/05/202241,366 mi
- 06/05/202241,366 mi
- 31/05/202341,600 mi+234 mi
- 01/06/202341,600 mi
Average of roughly 219 miles per year across 4 recorded odometer readings.
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MOT Roadworthiness: Below 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.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Caution is advised – the low mileage is attractive, but the recurring MOT failures and corrosion issues raise the risk of unexpected repairs.
When negotiating, factor in the cost of addressing the corrosion on the nearside and offside suspension mounting areas noted in the 2023 MOT advisories, as well as the brake pipe and hose corrosion highlighted in the 2019 test. A professional inspection of the braking system is essential because of the repeated service brake fluctuations and the off‑side front brake binding failure recorded in 2013. Verify that the tyre sizes are now correct and that any cracked or perished tyres have been replaced, as the 2023 MOT flagged different tyre sizes and cracked tyres on multiple axles.
Ask the seller for a full service history, particularly any recent work on the suspension, brakes and rust repair. Look for evidence of rust treatment on the chassis legs and outer sills, which have been flagged as corroded in several MOTs. If the car has had a recent full rebuild or rust protection treatment, that can mitigate the corrosion concerns. Consider a price reduction of at least £1,500‑£2,000 to cover anticipated repairs, especially if the seller cannot provide receipts for recent work.
Be aware that classic MX‑5s often require more frequent maintenance on rubber components (brake hoses, suspension bushings) and rust‑prone areas. A thorough test drive should include checking for any unusual noises from the suspension, brake pedal feel, and headlamp aim, as the 2023 MOT noted a low headlamp aim on the off‑side. If possible, obtain a pre‑purchase inspection from a mechanic familiar with older Mazdas.
The MX‑5’s 1.8‑litre petrol engine typically delivers around 30 mpg in mixed driving, meaning fuel costs of roughly £1,200‑£1,400 per year at current fuel prices. CO₂ emissions place it in the higher road‑tax band (around £165 annually). Insurance groups for classic MX‑5s are usually in the 12‑14 range, translating to an estimated £600‑£800 per year for a 30‑year‑old driver. Routine maintenance – oil changes, brake servicing and occasional rust treatment – adds another £200‑£300 annually. Overall, you can expect total running costs of about £2,200‑£2,600 per year.
Because the car is approaching 30 years old, budget for occasional major servicing such as timing belt replacement (if not already done) and potential chassis repairs due to rust. These larger items can push the annual cost toward the upper end of the estimate, especially if the corrosion issues highlighted in the MOT history have not been fully addressed.
Inspect the nearside and offside suspension mounting points for corrosion, as both were flagged in the 2023 MOT advisory (5.3.6 (a) (i)). While the advisory noted the corrosion was not excessive, any weakening could affect handling and may require component replacement or reinforcement.
Pay close attention to the brake system: the 2019 MOT recorded off‑side front brake binding, and earlier tests noted fluctuating service brakes and thin rear pads. Examine the brake discs, pads, and the outer brake pipes for rust (1.1.11 (c)) and ensure the brake hoses are in good condition. Verify that the parking brake engages firmly, as the 2019 and 2013 tests mentioned high handbrake travel.
Check all tyre condition and sizes. The 2023 MOT failed due to mismatched front tyre sizes and several tyres described as slightly damaged or perishing. Confirm that the current tyres are of the correct size and have sufficient tread depth. Also, inspect the headlamp aim, especially the off‑side unit, which was recorded as too low in the 2023 MOT (4.1.2 (a)). Finally, look for any signs of rust on the chassis legs and outer sills, which have been repeatedly noted as corroded in earlier MOTs.
This 1998 Mazda MX-5 in blue has only 41,600 miles, well below the average for its age, and it passed its most recent MOT in June 2023. However, the MOT history shows a pattern of corrosion on suspension mounting points, brake pipe wear, tyre damage and several major failures such as mismatched front tyres and brake service issues. The car offers classic roadster appeal and a simple 1.8‑litre engine, but prospective buyers should budget for remedial work on the suspension, brakes and bodywork.
While aggregate data is unavailable, the Mazda MX‑5 is generally regarded as a reliable roadster, though age‑related corrosion and wear on suspension components are common in cars of this vintage.
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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