MG MGF (1998)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,749 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
72%
Total Tests (2024)
2,749
Avg Mileage
70,189 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,017
Is the 1998 MG MGF reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 10 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MG brand average of 86%.
At 26 years old, 72% of MG MGFs from 1998 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,749 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 70,189 miles.
How does the 1998 MG MGF compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1998 MG MGF has 70,189 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 192,400 miles for a 26-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 1998 sits between the two at 72%.
How much does a 1998 MG MGF cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
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 1998 MG MGF
The 1998 MG MGF is a family car with a 1796cc petrol engine. 2,749 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 1998, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 70,189 miles at 26 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.
1998 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 1998 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 72% 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 1998 MG MGF
At 26 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 1998 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 (+1%) from 8,535 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (1999) 71% pass rate (-1%) from 8,442 tests
- NISSAN MICRA (1999) 70% pass rate (-2%) from 6,792 tests
- TOYOTA YARIS (2000) 70% pass rate (-2%) from 6,496 tests