MG ZR (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 902 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
74%
Total Tests (2024)
902
Avg Mileage
87,431 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,017
Is the 2003 MG ZR reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 8 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MG brand average of 86%.
At 21 years old, 74% of MG ZRs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 902 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 87,431 miles.
How does the 2003 MG ZR compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 MG ZR has 87,431 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a MG ZR?
The most reliable year is the 2005 model with a 78% MOT pass rate, while the 2003 model has the lowest at 74%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2003 MG ZR 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 ZR by Year
Checking a specific MG ZR?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 MG ZR
The 2003 MG ZR is a family car with a 1796cc petrol engine. 902 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2003, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 87,431 miles at 21 years old, MG ZR owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 MG ZR 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 2003 MG ZR?
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 74% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
MG ZR Reliability Trend
The MG ZR has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 0 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 MG ZR
At 21 years old, the MG ZR 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 MG ZR
The MG ZR is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol family cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MINI MINI (2005) 71% pass rate (-3%) from 45,707 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2005) 71% pass rate (-3%) from 41,794 tests
- FORD FIESTA (2003) 71% pass rate (-3%) from 29,898 tests
- TOYOTA YARIS (2005) 73% pass rate (-1%) from 29,754 tests