NISSAN 200 SX (1997)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 204 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
89%
Total Tests (2024)
204
Avg Mileage
110,493 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,867
Is the 1997 NISSAN 200 SX reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's 7 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the NISSAN brand average of 81%.
At 27 years old, 89% of NISSAN 200 SXs from 1997 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 204 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 110,493 miles.
How does the 1997 NISSAN 200 SX compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1997 NISSAN 200 SX has 110,493 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 199,800 miles for a 27-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a NISSAN 200 SX?
The most reliable year is the 1998 model with a 91% MOT pass rate, while the 1994 model has the lowest at 82%. The 1997 sits between the two at 89%.
How much does a 1997 NISSAN 200 SX 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.
NISSAN 200 SX by Year
Checking a specific NISSAN 200 SX?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1997 NISSAN 200 SX
The 1997 NISSAN 200 SX is a family car with a 1998cc petrol engine. 204 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It ranks in the top 12% of all 1997 cars for reliability.
With an average of 110,493 miles at 27 years old, NISSAN 200 SX owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
1997 NISSAN 200 SX Fuel Costs
The 1998cc 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 NISSAN 200 SX?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,867 (£156/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 89% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
NISSAN 200 SX Reliability Trend
The NISSAN 200 SX has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 1 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1997 NISSAN 200 SX
At 27 years old, the NISSAN 200 SX 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 1998 model has the highest pass rate at 91%.
Alternatives to the 1997 NISSAN 200 SX
The NISSAN 200 SX is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol family cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (1996) 67% pass rate (-22%) from 8,643 tests
- MAZDA MX-5 (1999) 73% pass rate (-16%) from 8,535 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (1999) 71% pass rate (-18%) from 8,442 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (1999) 78% pass rate (-11%) from 7,815 tests