1991 Lotus Elan 1.6L Petrol · H212 CGB

The vehicle is currently in a state of declining roadworthiness following a failed test in June 2026 at 88,895 miles. The maintenance trend is worsening, moving from a period of clean passes to a comprehensive list of mechanical and structural failures. The most recent inspection identified critical issues including excessive carbon monoxide emissions, an exhaust leak, and multiple steering and braking-related defects. While the car passed in 2025, the subsequent failure indicates that developing faults were either left unaddressed or have deteriorated rapidly since. The mileage pattern is exceptionally low for a 35-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 2,540 miles per year. However, the data reveals significant periods of inactivity, most notably the gap between 2017 and 2020 where the car covered only 41 miles in three years, and between 2021 and 2024 where it added just 82 miles over three years. This low-use profile often correlates with the technical issues noted, such as seized components, perished seals, and corrosion resulting from standing rather than mechanical wear. A buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the rear suspension and wheel assemblies, as the nearside rear wheel bearing has shown persistent play back to 2017, escalating to excessive play in 2026. The lower suspension arms also show a history of corrosion that reached a seriously weakened state in 2020 and remains a concern despite the low mileage. Furthermore, the steering rack inner joints now exhibit play on both sides, and the power steering system is weeping fluid, which requires professional investigation to ensure the integrity of the rack. The braking system demands immediate attention due to a recurring history of uneven application, low rear force, and binding offside rear calipers. The exhaust system is also compromised with a leak and has consistently failed to meet emission standards over the years, suggesting underlying engine management or combustion issues that have not been resolved. Given the reports of underbody corrosion, the structural integrity of the chassis must be verified in person before any purchase.