1997 Mazda MX-5 1.6L Petrol · J389 UPC

The Mazda MX-5 passed its most recent MOT on 16 December 2022 at 214,441 miles with no defects recorded, indicating a currently roadworthy status. The maintenance trend appears stable, as the only failures occurred in late 2021 and late 2022 and were both cleared within days by a subsequent pass with no defects listed. This pattern shows no worsening mechanical condition across the recorded history. The recorded mileage rose from 209,948 at the failed test on 24 November 2021 to 214,382 at the failed test on 25 November 2022, an annual accumulation of roughly 4,434 miles. That is below the lifetime average of about 7,395 miles per year for a 29-year-old vehicle. The gap between the November 2022 fail and the December 2022 pass covered only 59 miles, suggesting the car was barely driven between tests and has likely seen light use in its final recorded years. The MOT history shows two failures on 24 November 2021 and 25 November 2022 with no defects recorded, which points to administrative or unlisted presentation issues rather than flagged suspension bushes, brake discs, or corrosion. A buyer should still inspect structural integrity and chassis rails for rust given the car's age and 214,441 miles. Verify the condition of consumable items such as tyres, wiper blades, and exhaust emissions in person, as these were not noted but degrade with time regardless of test outcomes.