1997 Mazda MX-5 1.6L Petrol · 3 RJR
1997 Mazda MX-5 (1.6L, petrol). First registered 01/03/1997. Recorded mileage 103,758 miles. MOT valid until 03/08/2027. Taxed until 01/05/2027.
- Make & Model
- MAZDA MX-5
- Year / Origin
- 1997
- MOT Status
- Valid until 03/08/2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01/05/2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 103,758 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 1.6L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- PETROL
- Year
- 1997
- Engine
- 1598cc
AI-generated interpretation of this vehicle’s MOT record — not an official statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
3 RJR Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 28/07/2026
- 103,758 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 defect noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (4 mentions)
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
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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3 RJR Mileage History
- 19/07/2022103,451 mi
- 21/07/2023103,522 mi+71 mi
- 18/07/2024103,561 mi+39 mi
- 08/07/2025103,607 mi+46 mi
- 28/07/2026103,758 mi+151 mi
Average of roughly 76 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
3 RJR 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 1997 Mazda Mx-5 (3 RJR) between July 2022 and July 2026.
The record contains 5 passes and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 5 advisory notices note items to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (4 issues), Bodywork (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 5 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
Proceed with confidence, as this 1997 MX-5 shows a remarkably consistent MOT history with significantly low mileage for its age.
The primary selling point of this example is the mileage; it has covered only about 156 miles between 2024 and 2025. While the MOT record is currently clean, you must verify that the vehicle has been serviced annually regardless of mileage, as low-mileage cars can suffer from fluid degradation and dry seals. Check the service history for rust prevention treatments, as corrosion is a common failure point for this generation.
When viewing, pay close attention to the convertible mechanism and the seals for leaks. Since the MOT history shows no suspension issues to date, inspect the chassis yourself for any signs of surface rust that a tester might have missed. Check the condition of the suspension arms and coil springs, which are identified as common failure areas for the MX-5 fleet.
The 1598cc engine is known for its efficiency, typically delivering between 35-40 MPG depending on driving. As a 1997 vehicle, it falls into a lower tax band and relatively affordable insurance group, making it an accessible modern classic.
Maintenance costs are generally low as parts are plentiful and simple to fit. You should expect an annual running cost—including fuel, tax, insurance, and a basic service—to be in the range of £800-£1,200.
Focus your inspection on the underbody. Although this specific car has no MOT defects, the aggregate data for the MX-5 shows that corrosion is the leading reason for MOT failure. Look specifically for bubbling paint on the sills, rear wheel arches, and the floor pans.
Examine the suspension components. Given that suspension arms and coil springs are frequent failure points for this model, check for any tears in the rubber boots or play in the joints. The low mileage suggests you should ensure rubber components haven't perished or cracked, which can happen with age rather than use.
This black 1.6L Mazda MX-5 (NA) sits at 103,607 miles, which is exceptionally low compared to the model average of roughly 3,000 miles per year. The last four annual MOT tests from 2022 to 2025 have passed with zero recorded defects or advisories. This suggests a vehicle that has been stored well and used sparingly, avoiding the typical wear and tear seen in older roadsters.
The NA MX-5 is generally regarded for mechanical robustness, though the bodywork is highly susceptible to rust if not kept in dry conditions.
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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