1997 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · J7 GYP

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a persistent trend of structural and fluid system degradation. While the most recent test in December 2025 at 99,846 miles passed with only an advisory for corroded offside front suspension mounting areas, this follows a period of long-term corrosion issues. Between 2018 and 2022, the car suffered multiple failures related to serious structural weakening of suspension arms, indicating that the chassis integrity is historically vulnerable to oxidation. At 29 years old, the mileage of 99,846 miles is remarkably low, averaging approximately 3,443 miles per year. This low usage is consistent across the record, with only 5,268 miles covered between November 2022 and December 2025, a span of over 300 days. However, the low mileage appears to correlate with age-related decay, evidenced by recurring advisories for perished tyres and failing brake pipes that suggest the vehicle sits for long periods rather than undergoing frequent use. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the inner sills and suspension mounting points, as the record shows repeated failures for seat belt anchorages and arms weakened by rust. The brake system shows chronic issues, with brake pipe corrosion noted from 2018 through 2022, which suggests the lines may be thinning or failing despite the low mileage. Specific attention should also be paid to the offside front area and the condition of the ball joints, as these have been recurring points of failure in the past.