1998 Honda Civic Illusion 1.4L Petrol · S833 DSG
1998 Honda Civic Illusion (1.4L, petrol). First registered 05 Aug 1998. Recorded mileage 82,108 miles. MOT expired on 24 Aug 2024. Currently declared SORN.
- Make & Model
- HONDA CIVIC ILLUSION
- Year / Origin
- 1998 · Glasgow
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 24 Aug 2024
- Road Tax
- SORN
- Recorded Mileage
- 82,108 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 1.4L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
S833 DSG Key Findings
- 3 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 26/08/2023
- 82,108 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
S833 DSG MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
3 MOT tests are recorded for this 1998 Honda Civic Illusion (S833 DSG) between February 2022 and August 2023.
The record contains 2 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 26 August 2023 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
S833 DSG Mileage History
- 25/02/202269,718 mi
- 24/04/202270,363 mi+645 mi
- 26/08/202382,108 mi+11,745 mi
Average of roughly 8,276 miles per year across 3 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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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.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
A surprisingly well-preserved modern classic for those seeking low-mileage examples, but be prepared for age-related rubber wear typical of older Hondas.
When inspecting a Honda of this vintage, the absolute priority must be rust prevention. Despite the MOT history not highlighting major structural failures yet, check the wheel arches, sills, and underbody for any hidden corrosion. Given the low mileage, ensure the service history is consistent, specifically that oil changes and fluid replacements have been performed according to time rather than just mileage.
Pay close attention to the suspension. The MOT history shows a failure in 2015 for deteriorated trailing arm rubber bushes, which is a common weak point on this chassis. Test the car for any clunking or knocking over uneven surfaces, which could indicate that these bushes have perished again due to age despite the sub-90,000 mile-read odometer.
The 1.4cc petrol engine is relatively tax-efficient, likely achieving between 35-45 mpg depending on driving style. It falls into a low insurance bracket and modest tax band, making it an economical choice for older drivers or budget commuters.
Maintenance costs are generally low for Hondas, though parts for the 'Illusion' trim may be becoming increasingly specialist. Expect annual running costs, including fuel, tax, and routine servicing, to sit around £900-£1,100.
Focus your inspection on the rear suspension geometry. The 2015 failure for the nearside rear trailing arm rubber bush suggests that these components are prone to wear over time. Check for cracks or play in all bushings and ensure the rear wheels are not showing signs of uneven wear.
The MOT history from 2019 and 2022 shows failures that were not detailed in the summary provided but often relate to items like bulbs, wipers, or brake adjustments on cars this age. Inspect the interior for any damage to the plastics and check the engine bay for any signs of oil leaks, as seals can dry out and fail on 28-year-old vehicles.
This 1998 Honda Civic Illusion is a rare survivor of its era, sitting at 82,108 miles which is significantly below average for its age. While it has maintained a history of passing MOTs, the record shows a recurring pattern of minor failures related to suspension components and mechanical adjustments. The 1.4cc engine is known for its durability, but the vehicle's age requires close attention to rust and rubber.
The 6th-generation Civic is renowned for its engine longevity and reliability, provided the bodywork is kept free from 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
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