1997 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · P188 BAP

The vehicle’s most recent MOT, conducted on 2022-06-13 at 117,643 miles, recorded a pass with no defects. Subsequent tests from 2017 to 2020 also showed passes, with the 2018-10-16 test failing but noting no defects. This suggests a stable maintenance trend over the past six years, with no recurring mechanical or structural issues documented. However, the absence of an MOT since 2022 raises concerns about compliance and potential unrecorded deterioration, particularly given the vehicle’s age and low mileage. The recorded mileage of 117,643 miles over 29 years equates to approximately 4,057 miles annually, significantly below average for a car of this age. This low usage may indicate periods of inactivity, increasing the risk of corrosion, dry rot, and degraded rubber components. The MOT history shows minimal mileage progression between 2017 and 2022, with only 584 miles added over five years, suggesting infrequent use. While this could reflect careful ownership, it also implies potential neglect of systems reliant on regular operation, such as the battery, fuel system, and suspension. A buyer should prioritise inspecting the vehicle’s structural integrity, focusing on rust or corrosion in the chassis and body, which is common in older cars with low mileage. Suspension components, including bushes and coil springs, may exhibit wear despite the low mileage due to prolonged inactivity. The braking system, exhaust, and fluid levels should also be checked, as these are critical areas where inactivity can lead to hidden faults. The 2018 MOT failure, though unexplained, warrants further investigation to confirm no underlying issues were overlooked.