MG ZT-T (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 383 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
66%
Total Tests (2024)
383
Avg Mileage
132,596 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,597
Is the 2003 MG ZT-T reliable?
Below average reliability. Budget extra for maintenance and repairs. That's 16 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the MG brand average of 86%.
At 21 years old, 66% of MG ZT-Ts from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 383 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 132,596 miles.
How does the 2003 MG ZT-T compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 MG ZT-T has 132,596 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a MG ZT-T?
The most reliable year is the 2002 model with a 81% MOT pass rate, while the 2003 model has the lowest at 66%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2003 MG ZT-T 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 ZT-T by Year
Checking a specific MG ZT-T?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 MG ZT-T
The 2003 MG ZT-T is a large car with a 2497cc petrol engine. 383 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It sits in the bottom 87% of 2003 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 132,596 miles at 21 years old, MG ZT-T owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2003 MG ZT-T Fuel Costs
The 2497cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. 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 MG ZT-T?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,597 (£216/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £700 predicted repairs. The higher repair estimate reflects the 66% MOT pass rate. Cars in this bracket tend to need work on suspension, brakes, and emissions components.
MG ZT-T Reliability Trend
The MG ZT-T has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 0 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 MG ZT-T
At 21 years old, the MG ZT-T 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 ZT-T
If reliability is your priority, there are 4 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- RENAULT CLIO (2005) 67% pass rate (+1%) from 18,423 tests
- HONDA CR-V (2005) 70% pass rate (+4%) from 16,222 tests
- MERCEDES E (2005) 78% pass rate (+12%) from 8,269 tests
- FORD MONDEO (2004) 69% pass rate (+3%) from 7,419 tests