1990 Mazda MX-5 1.6L Petrol · H715 DPN
1990 Mazda MX-5 (1.6L, petrol). First registered 31 Dec 1990. Recorded mileage 241,216 km. MOT expired on 26 May 2025.
- Make & Model
- MAZDA MX-5
- Year / Origin
- 1990 · Bournemouth
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 26 May 2025
- Road Tax
- Untaxed (24 Aug 2024)
- Recorded Odometer
- 241,216 km
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.6L
- 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.
H715 DPN Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 28/05/2024
- 241,216 km recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 6 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring suspension items (11 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
H715 DPN 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 1990 Mazda Mx-5 (H715 DPN) between June 2022 and May 2024.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 28 May 2024 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: Suspension (11 issues), Brakes (10 issues), Bodywork (4 issues), Exhaust & Emissions (2 issues), Steering (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 17 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: “Offside Front Outer Brake pipe excessively corroded (1.1.11 (c))”; “Offside Front Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural stren”; “Offside Front Service brake excessively binding (1.2.1 (f))”.
H715 DPN Odometer History
- 06/06/2022239,232 km
- 06/07/2022239,381 km+149 km
- 13/07/2022239,393 km+12 km
- 07/07/2023240,484 km+1,091 km
- 28/05/2024241,216 km+732 km
Average of roughly 1,004 km per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
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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
Exercise extreme caution before consider
If you proceed, your primary focus must be a professional inspection of the chassis, sills, and subframes. The MOT history shows a progression of corrosion, from 'surface corrosion' in 2022 to 'excessive corrosion' affecting structural strength in the inner wings and sills. You must verify if the structural repairs required for previous failures were carried out to a professional standard and if the corrosion has been halted.
Negotiate heavily based on the documented history of brake pipe corrosion and suspension component deterioration. Ask for evidence of any recent welding or rust treatment. Given the high mileage of 241,216, also check for engine health and oil leaks, as the 2022 MOT noted exhaust carbon monoxide levels exceeding limits, which can indicate combustion or sealing issues.
Running costs for a 1.6L petrol MX-5 are generally moderate, but this specific example may incur higher-than-average maintenance costs due to its age and documented mechanical wear. Expect frequent attention to suspension components and braking systems.
Fuel economy will be typical for a 1990s roadster, and while the insurance group for a 1600cc engine is often manageable, the vehicle's high mileage and age may influence premiums. Budget significantly for potential structural repairs and parts replacement, as the MOT history suggests a recurring need for component renewal.
A thorough inspection of the underside is mandatory. Specifically, check the front and rear subframes, suspension arms, and the area around the inner wings, as the 2022 and 2023 MOTs recorded significant corrosion in these locations. Pay close attention to the sills, which have been flagged for corrosion affecting structural rigidity.
Examine the entire braking system, including all brake pipes and hoses. The records show repeated failures for corroded brake pipes and chafed hoses. Additionally, inspect all suspension ball joints and steering joints; the 2022 history indicates a pattern of perishing dust boots and deteriorated ball joint covers across multiple components.
This 1990 Mazda MX-5 has covered 241,216 miles, which is significantly higher than the model average of 3,057 miles per year. While it has passed its most recent MOT, the history shows a pattern of serious structural corrosion, brake pipe degradation, and suspension component failures. The vehicle's age and high mileage, combined with documented chassis issues, make it a high-risk purchase.
Aggregate data for this model shows an 81.6% MOT pass rate, with corrosion and exhaust issues being common failure reasons.
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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