Mazda Mx-5 vs Mazda 323: MOT reliability compared
Updated 05 September 2026.
23.4%
Mazda Mx-5 MOT failure rate, 9.5 pts lower than Mazda 323
Mazda Mx-5 is the more reliable MOT performer: 23.4% of Mazda Mx-5 MOTs fail versus 32.9% for Mazda 323, a 9.5 point gap.
| Metric | Mazda Mx-5 | Mazda 323 |
|---|---|---|
| MOT failure rate | 23.4% | 32.9% |
| Tests analysed | 2,549,412 | 852,798 |
| Most common failure | Brakes (33.4%) | Suspension (38.9%) |
Questions and answers
Which is more reliable, Mazda Mx-5 or Mazda 323?
Mazda Mx-5 is the more reliable MOT performer: 23.4% of Mazda Mx-5 MOTs fail versus 32.9% for Mazda 323, a 9.5 point gap.
What is the MOT failure rate of the Mazda Mx-5?
23.4% of Mazda Mx-5 MOT tests result in a failure, from 2,549,412 tests.
What is the MOT failure rate of the Mazda 323?
32.9% of Mazda 323 MOT tests result in a failure, from 852,798 tests.