FORD SCORPIO (1998)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 107 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£2,427
£202/month
MOT Pass Rate
88%
Good
Road Tax
£430
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 30-42
2935cc Petrol
Solid Option
88% pass rate, £2427/year to run. 6 points above average.
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Annual Running Costs
~30 mpg
Based on 2935cc
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's 6 points above the national average of 82%.
At 28 years old, 88% of FORD SCORPIOs from 1998 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 107 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 92,580 miles.
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Mileage Analysis
92,580
Average miles
207,200
Expected for age
The average 1998 FORD SCORPIO has 92,580 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 207,200 miles for a 28-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
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FORD SCORPIO by Year
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About the 1998 FORD SCORPIO
The 1998 FORD SCORPIO is a large car with a 2935cc petrol engine. 107 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 12% of all 1998 cars for reliability.
With an average of 92,580 miles at 28 years old, FORD SCORPIO owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
1998 FORD SCORPIO Fuel Costs
The 2935cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 1998 FORD SCORPIO?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,427 (£202/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £430 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 88% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
FORD SCORPIO Reliability Trend
Newer FORD SCORPIOs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 8 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1998 FORD SCORPIO
At 28 years old, the FORD SCORPIO is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 1998 FORD SCORPIO's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
Timing Chain / Belt
Watch outAt 28 years old, check whether the timing belt has been replaced (typically due every 5-7 years or 60,000-100,000 miles). A snapped belt can destroy the engine.
Oil Consumption
Medium riskLarger petrol engines can develop higher oil consumption as they age. Check the oil level and look for blue smoke from the exhaust.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Medium riskWith an average of 93k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 1998 FORD SCORPIO stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FORD SCORPIO(1998) | 88% | £1592 | £430 | Grp 30-42 | £2427 |
| VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER(1996) | 67% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 25-38 | £2597+£170 |
| BMW Z3(1999) | 78% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 35-50 | £2397-£30 |
| BMW 3 SERIES(1999) | 78% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 25-38 | £2397-£30 |
| PORSCHE BOXSTER(2000) | 82% | £1592 | £250 | Grp 30-42 | £2247-£180 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
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