MG MGF (1997)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,049 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
75%
Total Tests (2024)
2,049
Avg Mileage
68,840 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,017
Is the 1997 MG MGF reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 7 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MG brand average of 86%.
At 27 years old, 75% of MG MGFs from 1997 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,049 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 68,840 miles.
How does the 1997 MG MGF compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1997 MG MGF has 68,840 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 199,800 miles for a 27-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 MG MGF?
The most reliable year is the 2002 model with a 79% MOT pass rate, while the 1995 model has the lowest at 71%. The 1997 sits between the two at 75%.
How much does a 1997 MG MGF 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.
MG MGF by Year
Checking a specific MG MGF?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1997 MG MGF
The 1997 MG MGF is a family car with a 1796cc petrol engine. 2,049 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 1997, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 68,840 miles at 27 years old, MG MGF 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.
1997 MG MGF Fuel Costs
The 1796cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 1997 MG MGF?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,017 (£168/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 75% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MG MGF Reliability Trend
Newer MG MGFs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1997 MG MGF
At 27 years old, the MG MGF 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 2002 model has the highest pass rate at 79%.
Alternatives to the 1997 MG MGF
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MAZDA MX-5 (1999) 73% pass rate (-2%) from 8,535 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (1999) 71% pass rate (-4%) from 8,442 tests
- NISSAN MICRA (1999) 70% pass rate (-5%) from 6,792 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (1998) 79% pass rate (+4%) from 6,287 tests