MAZDA RX-8 (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 169 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
82%
Total Tests (2024)
169
Avg Mileage
70,074 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,247
Is the 2003 MAZDA RX-8 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 21 years old, 82% of MAZDA RX-8s from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 169 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 70,074 miles.
How does the 2003 MAZDA RX-8 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 MAZDA RX-8 has 70,074 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.
Best year to buy a MAZDA RX-8?
The most reliable year is the 2010 model with a 85% MOT pass rate, while the 2004 model has the lowest at 73%. The 2003 sits between the two at 82%.
How much does a 2003 MAZDA RX-8 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-8 by Year
Checking a specific MAZDA RX-8?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 MAZDA RX-8
The 2003 MAZDA RX-8 is a large car with a 2616cc petrol engine. 169 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 18% of all 2003 cars for reliability.
With an average of 70,074 miles at 21 years old, MAZDA RX-8 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-8 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-8?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,247 (£187/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 82% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MAZDA RX-8 Reliability Trend
Newer MAZDA RX-8s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 3 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 MAZDA RX-8
At 21 years old, the MAZDA RX-8 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 2010 model has the highest pass rate at 85%.
Alternatives to the 2003 MAZDA RX-8
The MAZDA RX-8 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 (-5%) from 9,406 tests
- MERCEDES E (2005) 78% pass rate (-4%) from 8,269 tests
- MERCEDES SLK (2004) 78% pass rate (-4%) from 6,598 tests
- VOLVO XC90 (2005) 73% pass rate (-9%) from 6,336 tests