DAIMLER 1977 · 4.2L PETROL

The vehicle presents a stable and improving maintenance trend, culminating in a clean pass on 10 May 2024 at 61,009 miles with no defects recorded. A significant deterioration occurred between 2012 and April 2013, where the tester flagged binding front brakes, major and minor exhaust leaks, and excessive play in suspension arm ball joints. The owner promptly addressed these critical mechanical failures, evidenced by the pass on 25 April 2013 at the same mileage of 60,419 miles. Since that repair, the Daimler has passed its subsequent three MOT tests without any advisories, indicating a period of consistent upkeep and resolving the earlier mechanical neglect. Accumulating only 61,009 miles over 49 years equates to roughly 1,245 miles annually, confirming exceptionally light use. The record shows a notable gap between April 2013 and August 2021, a period of over eight years where the vehicle covered just 52 miles. Following this prolonged standing, the mileage increased by 538 miles between August 2021 and May 2024. Such low annual mileage suggests the car spent significant time stationary, which often leads to perishable rubber components drying out and brake calipers seizing due to lack of regular use. Buyers must inspect the structural integrity of the chassis and suspension components closely. The 2013 failure highlighted deteriorated ball joint dust covers and excessive play in the lower suspension arms, alongside binding front brakes and rear hub play. Although the subsequent MOTs passed clean, prolonged standing accelerates corrosion on subframes, brake discs, and coil springs. A thorough underbody inspection is essential to check for rust perforation, especially around the exhaust system, which previously suffered major and minor gas leaks. Examine the condition of the steering rack and track rod ends for the slight free play flagged in 2013, and verify that the brake calipers are not binding, a recurring issue that can warp discs and reduce fuel efficiency. The perished fuel cap seals noted in 2012 and the high hydrocarbon levels on tick over warrant a check of the carburettor tuning and ignition timing. Tyre condition requires scrutiny as well, given the previous near-legal tread depth warnings and the likelihood of flat spots from extended stationary periods.