The most recent MOT test on record occurred on 11 July 2009 at 46,134 miles, meaning this vehicle has not been presented for a roadworthiness inspection in over sixteen years as of today's date. The maintenance trend is therefore impossible to assess in any current context. The 2009 pass was a bare one, with the tester flagging front brake pads wearing thin at the minimum acceptable threshold. No subsequent test exists to confirm whether that wear was addressed or whether any of the more serious structural advisories noted in 2008 have progressed. The vehicle's roadworthiness status today is entirely unknown and cannot be assumed from this stale record.
The mileage pattern tells a story of very limited use followed by what appears to be a complete cessation of driving. Between the 2007 test at 29,031 miles and the 2008 test at 35,437 miles, the car covered 6,406 miles in a single year. Then, between July 2008 and July 2009, it added only 10,697 miles. After that final test, the recorded mileage remains frozen at 46,134 miles. For a vehicle now thirty-eight years old, the total of roughly 46,000 miles equates to approximately 1,214 miles per year, which is exceptionally low. Such figures suggest prolonged periods of inactivity, and vehicles that stand for extended durations often suffer from deteriorated rubber components, seized brakes, stale fuel, and accelerated corrosion in areas that would normally be kept dry through regular use.
The 2008 test, both failed and passed entries on the same date at 35,437 miles, contained advisories that should be treated as serious areas of concern for any prospective buyer. The tester noted corrosion beginning in the underfloors, chassis rails, jacking points, front and rear subframes, suspension mountings, and inner and outer sills. On a vehicle of this age and construction, these are structural areas where corrosion can compromise integrity if left unchecked. Suspension bushes were described as starting to deteriorate across the board, with specific mention of the front lower arm rubber bush and nearside top strut bush play. A buyer should have the underside inspected thoroughly, paying close attention to the sills, subframes, and floor pans for advanced corrosion that may have worsened significantly since 2008.
The braking system also warrants close scrutiny. The 2008 record flagged a slightly corroded brake pipe and a deteriorated brake hose, and the 2009 test confirmed front brake pads were at the wear limit. With the car having stood for over sixteen years, calipers may have seized, rubber hoses will almost certainly have perished, and any corroded steel pipework may now be compromised beyond what was noted. A full brake system inspection, including pipework, hoses, calipers, and the handbrake mechanism, is essential before any road use. The suspension bushes, track rod ends, and steering components flagged in 2007 and 2008 should also be examined, as rubber deteriorates with age regardless of mileage. This vehicle's long-term storage makes a comprehensive mechanical inspection not merely advisable but a prerequisite.