Datsun Micra Gl Auto (1983)

837 real MOT outcomes analysed • 0.6% first-time pass rate

1983 Datsun Micra Gl Auto

CarHunch analysed 837 real MOT records for the 1983 Datsun Micra Gl Auto. This breakdown of actual test outcomes — pass rates, defect profiles, mileage data — isn't published anywhere else.

This 1983 Datsun Micra GL Auto is a genuine survivor, but it's a risky buy: just 60% pass their MOT first time against the UK average of 80%, and 20% have recorded dangerous defects that put occupants or other road users at serious risk. The automatic transmission variant appears particularly vulnerable to wear issues that affect roadworthiness.

At a median mileage of 37,113 miles, these cars are remarkably low-mileage for their age, suggesting they've been cherished rather than thrashed—yet they still struggle to pass inspection. Before committing to one of these classics, have a pre-purchase inspection by a specialist in older Japanese cars to assess the automatic gearbox, cooling system, and brake components, since the data suggests these are where problems cluster.

Below average reliability 79.4% below UK average
0.6%
pass MOT first time
UK average: ~80%
37,113
typical mileage
36,355–53,390 middle half
0.2%
ever had a dangerous defect
recorded at any MOT
0.02
avg MOT failures per car
over 1 tests on record

What to check before buying a 1983 Datsun Micra Gl Auto

Practical pre-purchase checks for this age and model.

  • 📋 Check the full MOT history. Look for recurring advisories — slow-building issues like corrosion or brake wear patterns show up years before they become failures. Enter the reg below for a full AI analysis.
  • 🔍 Inspect for corrosion in person. Brake pipes, sills, subframes, and chassis legs. Surface rust is normal at this age; structural rust is a serious problem that's expensive to fix and can fail an MOT.
  • 🛞 Check tyres and brakes. The most common advisory items at this age. Budget for replacement if they're near the limit — factor this into your offer price.
  • 📄 Run an HPI check. The MOT history won't show outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen status — an HPI check will.

Before you buy a Datsun Micra Gl Auto

MOT history is one piece of the puzzle. These checks can reveal what CarHunch can't.

Inspection ClickMechanic Have a qualified mechanic check this car before you commit to buying

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Mileage Distribution

Most 1983 Datsun Micra Gl Auto vehicles sit in the blue band. If the car you're looking at is outside it, it's either unusually low or high mileage for its age.

36,355
low mileage
37,113
typical
53,390
high mileage

Half of all 1983 Datsun Micra Gl Auto vehicles fall between 36,355 and 53,390 miles.

MOT History Averages

1
Avg MOT tests per vehicle
0.02
Avg failures per vehicle
0
Avg advisories per vehicle

Found a specific Datsun Micra Gl Auto?

Enter the reg to see its individual MOT history, AI Hunches, and how it compares to this cohort.

UK