MAZDA RX-7 (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 110 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
97%
Total Tests (2024)
110
Avg Mileage
72,480 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,097
Is the 2003 MAZDA RX-7 reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 15 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the MAZDA brand average of 81%.
At 21 years old, 97% of MAZDA RX-7s from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 110 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 72,480 miles.
How does the 2003 MAZDA RX-7 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 MAZDA RX-7 has 72,480 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
How much does a 2003 MAZDA RX-7 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
MAZDA RX-7 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2007 | 95% | 38 | 87,678 mi |
| 2006 | 81% | 36 | 65,339 mi |
| 2005 | 86% | 70 | 84,482 mi |
| 2004 | 96% | 68 | 61,591 mi |
| 2003 | 97% | 110 | 72,480 mi |
| 2000 | 79% | 43 | 64,823 mi |
| 1999 | 84% | 51 | 63,297 mi |
| 1998 | 80% | 44 | 66,278 mi |
| 1996 | 100% | 32 | 69,028 mi |
| 1995 | 96% | 57 | 69,661 mi |
| 1994 | 88% | 33 | 69,342 mi |
| 1993 | 83% | 104 | 84,869 mi |
| 1992 | 89% | 76 | 76,722 mi |
| 1991 | 82% | 34 | 70,478 mi |
| 1990 | 86% | 97 | 85,348 mi |
Checking a specific MAZDA RX-7?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 MAZDA RX-7
The 2003 MAZDA RX-7 is a large car with a 2616cc petrol engine. 110 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 2% of all 2003 cars for reliability.
With an average of 72,480 miles at 21 years old, MAZDA RX-7 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.
2003 MAZDA RX-7 Fuel Costs
The 2616cc 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 2003 MAZDA RX-7?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,097 (£175/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 97% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
MAZDA RX-7 Reliability Trend
The MAZDA RX-7 has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 2 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 MAZDA RX-7
At 21 years old, the MAZDA RX-7 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.
Alternatives to the 2003 MAZDA RX-7
The MAZDA RX-7 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol large cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- BMW 3 SERIES (2001) 77% pass rate (-20%) from 9,406 tests
- MERCEDES E (2005) 78% pass rate (-19%) from 8,269 tests
- MERCEDES SLK (2004) 78% pass rate (-19%) from 6,598 tests
- VOLVO XC90 (2005) 73% pass rate (-24%) from 6,336 tests