1998 Mazda MX-5 1.8L Petrol · S255 BGC
1998 Mazda MX-5 (1.8L, petrol). First registered 01/11/1998. Recorded mileage 111,476 miles. MOT status: Expired.
- Make & Model
- MAZDA MX-5
- Year / Origin
- 1998 · Glasgow
- MOT Status
- Valid until 08/12/2022
- Road Tax
- Untaxed (01/12/2022)
- Recorded Mileage
- 111,476 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 1.8L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- PETROL
- Year
- 1998
- Engine
- 1840cc
S255 BGC Key Findings
- 2 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 09/12/2021
- 111,476 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 1 defect noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring suspension items (2 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Below 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
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S255 BGC Mileage History
- 09/12/2021111,476 mi
- 09/12/2021111,476 mi
Average of roughly 0 miles per year across 2 recorded odometer readings.
S255 BGC MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
2 MOT tests are recorded for this 1998 Mazda Mx-5 (S255 BGC) between December 2021 and December 2021.
The record contains 1 pass and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 09 December 2021 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: Suspension (2 issues), Lighting (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 2 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.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with extreme caution; this MX-5 shows significant signs of advanced structural corrosion and a history of deferred maintenance. While it remains a classic roadster, the MOT history suggests escalating rust that may soon become costly to rectify.
The primary focus for this vehicle is a thorough chassis inspection. The MOT records repeatedly note corrosion on the front and rear subframes, wishbones, and suspension mounting areas. You must have a specialist check the sills and inner wings to determine if the rust is surface-level or structural, as 'not considered excessive sill' corrosion has been noted for several years.
Check the service history meticulously. The car shows a history of neglected brake components, with pitted discs and thin pads noted across multiple years. Ensure the rear coil springs and tyres have been replaced recently, as the car previously failed on a fractured spring and exposed cords in 2019. Negotiate heavily based on the likely cost of upcoming structural repairs required to keep the car MOT-worthy.
The 1.8L petrol engine is relatively efficient, likely achieving 30-35 mpg in mixed driving. Insurance groups for older MX-5s vary but are generally mid-range due to their popularity. Annual Road Tax is low for a vehicle of this era.
Maintenance costs may be high due to the age of the car. Expect to spend on rubber components, bushings, and suspension parts. Estimate an annual running cost of roughly £1,200-£1,500, accounting for fuel and the high likelihood of rust-related repairs.
Inspect the entire underside of the car with a torch. The MOT history highlights corrosion on the front and rear subframes, anti-roll bars, and wishbones. Look specifically for bubbling paint on the sills and the offside rear suspension mounting area, which was flagged in 2021.
Examine the braking system thoroughly. The vehicle has a history of binding brakes, worn discs, and thin pads. Check the rear coil springs for cracks or fractures (given the previous failure) and ensure the tyres are not showing signs of damage, as the car has failed on exposed cords before.
This 1998 Mazda MX-5 sits at approximately 111,476 miles, which is above average for its age. While it has passed its most recent test, the MOT history reveals a persistent pattern of structural rust across the subframes, wishbones, and suspension mounts. Recent failures related to brake performance and safety-critical items (exposed tyre cords and fractured springs) indicate a vehicle that is nearing the end of its practical life without significant investment.
The NB-generation MX-5 is known for its mechanical robustness, but it is notoriously susceptible to body rust if not stored in dry conditions.
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
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