MAZDA MPV (1997)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 42 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
52%
Total Tests (2024)
42
Avg Mileage
181,566 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,250
Is the 1997 MAZDA MPV reliable?
Below average reliability. Budget extra for maintenance and repairs. That's 30 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MAZDA brand average of 81%.
At 27 years old, 52% of MAZDA MPVs from 1997 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 42 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 181,566 miles.
How does the 1997 MAZDA MPV compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1997 MAZDA MPV has 181,566 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 199,800 miles for a 27-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a MAZDA MPV?
The most reliable year is the 2004 model with a 79% MOT pass rate, while the 2008 model has the lowest at 48%. The 1997 sits between the two at 52%.
How much does a 1997 MAZDA MPV cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MAZDA MPV by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | 77% | 62 | 109,722 mi |
| 2013 | 71% | 95 | 144,340 mi |
| 2012 | 65% | 99 | 132,388 mi |
| 2011 | 66% | 116 | 135,976 mi |
| 2010 | 63% | 99 | 140,352 mi |
| 2009 | 65% | 69 | 158,485 mi |
| 2008 | 48% | 148 | 155,171 mi |
| 2007 | 77% | 109 | 153,671 mi |
| 2006 | 59% | 117 | 149,458 mi |
| 2005 | 56% | 90 | 132,112 mi |
| 2004 | 79% | 56 | 138,845 mi |
| 2003 | 62% | 50 | 144,143 mi |
| 2001 | 71% | 38 | 102,181 mi |
| 1999 | 59% | 34 | 152,221 mi |
| 1997 | 52% | 42 | 181,566 mi |
Checking a specific MAZDA MPV?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1997 MAZDA MPV
The 1997 MAZDA MPV is a large car with a 2490cc diesel engine. 42 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 100% of 1997 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 181,566 miles at 27 years old, MAZDA MPV owners drive about as much as the UK average.
1997 MAZDA MPV Fuel Costs
The 2490cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 1997 MAZDA MPV?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,250 (£188/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £700 predicted repairs. The higher repair estimate reflects the 52% MOT pass rate. Cars in this bracket tend to need work on suspension, brakes, and emissions components.
MAZDA MPV Reliability Trend
Newer MAZDA MPVs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1997 MAZDA MPV
At 27 years old, the MAZDA MPV 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. If you're flexible on year, the 2004 model has the highest pass rate at 79%. Note: with only 42 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 1997 MAZDA MPV
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (1999) 70% pass rate (+18%) from 12,854 tests
- LAND ROVER DEFENDER (1997) 76% pass rate (+24%) from 10,084 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (1999) 75% pass rate (+23%) from 5,978 tests
- FORD TRANSIT (1998) 72% pass rate (+20%) from 3,080 tests