1988 FORD FIESTA1.1L PETROL

The vehicle is currently unroadworthy and exhibits a worsening trend in structural and mechanical condition. The most recent test in October 2024 at 98,918 miles resulted in a critical failure involving safety-critical structural components. While the car passed previous tests with minor advisories, the 2024 failure revealed significant corrosion on the inner subframe mountings and the floor pan at the offside seat belt anchorage. This indicates a progression from minor surface rust to deep structural decay that requires immediate attention. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 38-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 2,600 miles per year. Between November 2021 at 91,395 miles and October 2024 at 98,918 miles, the car covered only 7,523 miles. This low usage suggests limited wear on the drivetrain, but the record shows the vehicle has suffered from age-related degradation and potential neglect, as evidenced by persistent engine oil leaks and the deterioration of rubber components and metalwork despite the low distance traveled. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the chassis sills, subframes, and wheel arches to assess the extent of the structural rot. The 2024 report specifically flagged the offside rear inner subframe and the floor pan as excessively corroded, which compromises the vehicle's integrity. Furthermore, the suspension requires significant work due to a fractured nearside front coil spring and a weakened rear mounting identified in the latest test. The braking system and engine also show signs of ongoing issues. The oil leak has escalated from a minor concern in 2021 to an excessive leak by 2024. The history shows a recurring pattern with wheel bearings, worn brake discs, and binding calipers, suggesting that maintenance has only been addressed once components reached a point of failure. Given the structural failures and the recurring mechanical faults, the vehicle requires a substantial investment to return to a safe roadworthy standard.