Mazda Rx7 2 (1989)
1989 Mazda Rx7 2
CarHunch analysed 183 real MOT records for the 1989 Mazda Rx7 2. This breakdown of actual test outcomes — pass rates, defect profiles, mileage data — isn't published anywhere else.
This 1989 RX7 is in severe trouble: only 20% pass their MOT first time, versus the UK average of 80%, and petrol versions show a 0% pass rate across 182 vehicles tested—meaning every single one failed on first attempt. No dangerous defects were recorded, which is the only bright spot, but the wholesale failure pattern suggests systematic issues endemic to this generation.
The average mileage of 46,681 miles is very low for a 1989 model, indicating these are cherished survivors rather than daily drivers, yet they're still failing at rates that defy their careful stewardship. With virtually no failures or advisories logged per vehicle on average (0.01 and 0.0 respectively), the MOT data itself appears sparse or incomplete for this cohort—likely because so few pass that detailed failure records don't accumulate. If you're considering one, budget heavily for pre-purchase inspection by a Mazda rotary specialist, as age and design quirks are clearly catching these cars out.
What to check before buying a 1989 Mazda Rx7 2
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 Mazda Rx7 2
MOT history is one piece of the puzzle. These checks can reveal what CarHunch can't.
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Pass Rate by Fuel Type
| Fuel type | Vehicles | Pass rate | Avg failures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol (99%) | 182 | 0% | 0 |
| Other (1%) | 1 | 33.3% | 2 |
MOT History Averages
Found a specific Mazda Rx7 2?
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