A Grand Monday: 1988 Mazda 121

We’ve managed to snaffle this particular Grand Monday offering just as it’s about to come to market, and couldn’t resist including it thanks to its rarity appeal and overall condition. The vendor reckons his 1988 Mazda 121 1.3 LX is in ‘outstanding, rust-free condition throughout’ – which makes its £900 asking price seem rather tempting.

It could be a while since you’ve seen a first-generation Mazda 121 roaming the streets, as this is the model that came top in our study of the rarest cars of the 1980s, with just 103 examples still in use at the time.

Not only is this one of the scarcer superminis of the ’80s, this example is an excellent survivor. The mileage from new is just 56,000, and throughout much of its life the car was serviced at its original supplying dealer in Aberystwyth. It comes with its original service books, as well as an A4 folder packed with invoices and receipts.

During almost three years of ownership, the current owner has treated the Mazda to a new cambelt and water pump, four brand new tyres, a professional respray of the original faded bumpers, and a new-old-stock genuine Mazda front spoiler. The bodywork is otherwise all-original and in amazing condition, the paintwork is superb and, according to the owner, there’s no sign of rust or rot anywhere.

Us? We love the fabulous ’80s-style striped upholstery found inside this 121. Perhaps more important to a potential buyer, however, is the fact that the car is MoT’d until July 2016 and is ready to be enjoyed as a show car or unusual daily user.

The Mazda can be viewed in Stourbridge, West Midlands, by prior appointment with the vendor. Oh, and he tells us that only caring new homes will be considered! To find out more, give him a call on 07565 715144.