2009 Mazda RX-8 2.6L Petrol · LD09 TYA

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT test on 3 December 2025 with no defects or advisories recorded, continuing a strong pattern of clean test outcomes that stretches back through 2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, and 2018. With the sole exception of the 2021 test, which noted a minor windscreen chip and front tyre advisories, the MOT history demonstrates a consistently stable and well-maintained vehicle from a roadworthiness certification standpoint. The absence of any advisories on the most recent test is a positive indicator, suggesting that the issues flagged in 2021 were addressed at that time and have not recurred. The overall maintenance trend appears stable to improving, with no evidence of recurring or progressively worsening defects across the recorded test history. With 67,628 miles recorded over approximately 17 years, the vehicle has covered around 3,978 miles annually, which is notably low for a car of this age. While low mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain components, the rotary engine fitted to the RX-8 is particularly sensitive to irregular use, as prolonged standing periods can lead to compression loss, apex seal wear, and difficulty restarting after extended inactivity. The MOT records show broadly consistent annual testing, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular use throughout its life rather than abandoned for long periods. Nonetheless, the relatively modest annual mileage means that time-based degradation of fluids, rubbers, and electrical components is a more relevant concern than high-mileage mechanical wear. Given the low annual mileage and the vehicle's age, prospective buyers should pay particular attention to age-related deterioration that an MOT would not necessarily capture. The 2021 advisories relating to nearside and offside front tyre perishing and edge wear are worth noting, as tyres older than five years can suffer sidewall cracking and structural degradation even with adequate tread depth, and a careful physical inspection of all four tyres for perishing, bulges, or age-related deterioration is strongly recommended. Standing-related corrosion is another concern, and the underside of the vehicle, including suspension components, brake lines, and the fuel tank area, should be examined for surface rust or scaling. Brake discs may exhibit pitting or lipping from infrequent use, and calipers can seize due to corrosion on the slider pins, which would manifest as uneven braking or pulling to one side under application. Additional checks appropriate for a low-mileage, older vehicle include verification of the 12V battery's health, as batteries typically require replacement every four to six years regardless of use, and confirmation that the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox oil have been changed in line with calendar-based service intervals rather than purely mileage-based schedules. On a test drive, listen carefully for any rough idling, unusual exhaust smoke particularly on startup, or unusual noises from the rear suspension, which is a known weakness on RX-8 models due to the multi-link setup and age-related bush deterioration. The cooling system should be inspected for leaks, as the RX-8 is known for water pump and thermostat housing failures with age, and verifying recent replacement of these components would be prudent. Finally, confirming a comprehensive service history with evidence of regular rotary engine specialist attention, including compression testing records and spark plug and coil replacement, will provide the strongest assurance that this low-mileage example has been properly preserved rather than simply left standing.