Mazda MX-3
Reliability, estimated running costs, and MOT data across 6 model years from 524 MOT tests in 2024.
Avg Pass Rate
77%
Total Tests
524
Highest Pass Rate
1997 (71%)
Years Covered
6
About the Mazda MX-3
The Mazda MX-3 was MOT tested 524 times in 2024 (DVSA data, retests included) across 6 model years (1993 to 1998), with an average pass rate of 77%. That's 5 points below the average of 82% across all models in our data, so check the year-by-year data carefully before buying. Our records list petrol versions.
Best and Worst Years
Of the years with at least 100 tests, the 1997 model has the highest pass rate at 71% from 181 tests. The 1996 model has the lowest at 65%. The 6 point gap means pass rates vary somewhat between years, but no year is dramatically different. Newer cars usually pass more often simply because they are younger.
Mileage Across Years
The oldest model in our data (1993) averages 82,927 miles, while the newest (1998) averages 77,900 miles.
Compared to the Mazda brand average of 81%, the MX-3 is 4 points lower, placing it among the less reliable Mazda models.
Estimated Running Costs
Based on 7,400 miles/year, average pump prices of 174.57p petrol and 199.33p diesel (GOV.UK weekly road fuel prices, week of 19 October 2026), and MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
Full 1998 detailsHow reliable is the Mazda MX-3?
Mazda MX-3 by Year
Click any year to see detailed running costs, reliability data, and comparisons with similar cars.
Questions about the Mazda MX-3
Is the Mazda MX-3 reliable?
Across its 6 model years in our data (1993 to 1998), the Mazda MX-3 averages a 77% MOT pass rate, from 524 tests (DVSA MOT data for tests in 2024, retests included). That's 5 points below the average of 82% across all models in the same data. The 1997 model has the highest pass rate of the years with at least 100 tests, at 71%.
Which year Mazda MX-3 has the best MOT pass rate?
Of the years with at least 100 tests, the 1997 Mazda MX-3 has the highest MOT pass rate at 71%, while the 1996 model has the lowest at 65%, a 6 point gap. Newer cars usually pass more often simply because they are younger, so compare years of a similar age.
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