MAZDA RX-7 (2006)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 36 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
81%
Total Tests (2024)
36
Avg Mileage
65,339 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,572
Is the 2006 MAZDA RX-7 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 18 years old, 81% of MAZDA RX-7s from 2006 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 36 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 65,339 miles.
How does the 2006 MAZDA RX-7 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2006 MAZDA RX-7 has 65,339 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 133,200 miles for a 18-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a MAZDA RX-7?
The most reliable year is the 2003 model with a 97% MOT pass rate, while the 1993 model has the lowest at 83%. The 2006 sits between the two at 81%.
How much does a 2006 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 2006 MAZDA RX-7
The 2006 MAZDA RX-7 is a small family car with a 1300cc petrol engine. 36 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. Among all cars from 2006, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 65,339 miles at 18 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.
2006 MAZDA RX-7 Fuel Costs
The 1300cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2006 MAZDA RX-7?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,572 (£131/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £30 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 81% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
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 2006 MAZDA RX-7
At 18 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. If you're flexible on year, the 2003 model has the highest pass rate at 97%. Note: with only 36 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2006 MAZDA RX-7
The MAZDA RX-7 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol small family cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2008) 72% pass rate (-9%) from 109,443 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2008) 73% pass rate (-8%) from 90,659 tests
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2008) 73% pass rate (-8%) from 84,782 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2007) 80% pass rate (-1%) from 55,686 tests