1997 MG MGF 1.8L Petrol · R150 ADM
1997 MG MGF (1.8L, petrol). First registered 01/10/1997. Recorded mileage 35,036 miles. MOT valid until 21/07/2027. Taxed until 01/08/2027.
- Make & Model
- MG MGF
- Year / Origin
- 1997 · Reading
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 21/07/2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01/08/2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 35,036 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 1.8L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- PETROL
- Year
- 1997
- Engine
- 1796cc
R150 ADM Key Findings
- 4 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 23/07/2026
- 35,036 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 7 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (14 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: 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.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
Estimate current market value
Generate an instant valuation benchmark based on live market listings, vehicle mileage, and recent dealer auction figures.
Known faults for MG MGF
Our database tracks 2 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
R150 ADM Mileage History
- 23/05/202434,748 mi
- 19/05/202534,894 mi+146 mi
- 09/07/202635,030 mi+136 mi
- 23/07/202635,036 mi+6 mi
Average of roughly 133 miles per year across 4 recorded odometer readings.
R150 ADM MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
4 MOT tests are recorded for this 1997 Mg Mgf (R150 ADM) between May 2024 and July 2026.
The record contains 3 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 23 July 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (14 issues), Suspension (5 issues), Lighting (3 issues), Exhaust & Emissions (2 issues), Tyres (2 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 19 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 Rear Stop lamp(s) remains on when the brakes are released (4.3.2 (a) (iii))”; “Nearside Rear Stop lamp(s) remains on when the brakes are released (4.3.2 (a) (iii))”; “Exhaust Lambda reading after 2nd fast idle outside specified limits (8.2.1.2 (c))”.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution and thorough inspec
When viewing this MGF, prioritize a thorough check of the braking system and suspension. The MOT history shows a recurring trend of pitted and scored brake discs on all four corners, as well as worn shock absorber bushes. You should negotiate based on the potential immediate maintenance required to address these advisories.
Ask for evidence of work carried out following the July 2026 failure, specifically regarding the exhaust carbon monoxide and Lambda readings, as well as the brake binding issue. Given the age of the vehicle, verify if the cooling system and the mid-mounted engine components have been regularly inspected, as these are critical for this specific model.
Running costs for this 1.8L petrol MG MGF will be influenced by its status as a classic enthusiast vehicle. Fuel economy is typical for a 1990s roadster, and you should expect moderate petrol costs.
Insurance groups for MGFs can vary significantly depending on the driver's profile and the vehicle's use, but it is generally accessible for enthusiasts. Maintenance costs may be higher than a standard hatchback due to the specific parts required for the mid-engine layout and the recurring brake and suspension issues noted in the MOT records. Estimated annual running costs are approximately £1,100-£1,400.
Focus heavily on the braking system. The MOT history for this vehicle (R150ADM) repeatedly notes worn, pitted, or scored brake discs on both the nearside and offside fronts and rears. Check the thickness of the discs and the condition of the pads.
Inspect the suspension components closely. The records show 'slightly worn' bushes on the nearside and offside rear lower shock absorbers, as well as previous issues with the offside rear upper suspension arm ball joint. Additionally, ensure the exhaust system is performing correctly, as the July 2026 failure was triggered by high carbon monoxide and Lambda readings.
This 1997 MG MGF is a low-mileage example with 35,036 miles recorded as of July 2026. However, the recent MOT history is characterised by multiple advisories and a failure in July 2026 involving exhaust emissions and brake components. The vehicle has seen consistent issues with brake disc corrosion and suspension bush wear across its recent testing history.
Aggregate data for this model shows a 75.5% MOT pass rate, with common failure points including headlamps, exhaust systems, and corrosion.
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
Common Problems: MG MGF
Known issues reported by owners and MOT testers.
- Hydragas Suspension Leaks/Depressurisation(Moderate)
The unique interconnected fluid/gas suspension system can leak or lose pressure over time, leading to a harsh ride and low ground clearance.
- Head Gasket Failure(Serious)
Standard K-Series issue, exacerbated by the mid-engine layout and long coolant pipes to the front radiator.
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