1989 MERCEDES 3003.0L PETROL

The vehicle maintains a roadworthy status, though the maintenance trend shows a pattern of recurring age-related wear. The most recent test in July 2025 at 30,679 miles identified a deteriorating exhaust back box, which mirrors an advisory first noted back in 2015. While the vehicle continues to pass, the persistent nature of the exhaust system issues suggests slow corrosion processes over time rather than high-mile stress. The mileage profile is exceptionally low for a 37-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 829 miles per year. Data shows a significant gap in usage between 2018 and 2025, during which the car covered only 49 miles over seven years. This erratic usage pattern suggests the vehicle spends long periods stationary, which often leads to the specific degradation of rubber components and fluid seals. The consistency of the mileage across the decade confirms that the drivetrain has not been subjected to high mechanical load or thermal cycling. A buyer must prioritize a thorough physical inspection of rubber elements and structural integrity. The record highlights cracking rear tyres in both 2015 and 2016, indicating the rubber is failing due to age despite low tread depth. Given the long periods of inactivity, an inspector should check for perished brake hoses, seized caliper pistons, and perished bushings in the suspension. The previously noted oil leak from 2015 also warrants a close look at the engine block and gaskets to ensure the seal has not worsened during the recent years of storage.