1996 MERCEDES E3.2L PETROL

The vehicle presents a stable roadworthiness profile with a consistent maintenance record over the last four years. The most recent test on 7 April 2026 at 190,211 miles resulted in a pass with no recorded defects, following a curious failure on 24 March 2026 at just five miles prior mileage. Given that the failure recorded no specific defects in the system, this likely represents an administrative error or a sensor-related anomaly that was immediately rectified, indicating the car currently meets all minimum roadworthiness standards without outstanding mechanical failures. The mileage pattern is remarkably consistent for a thirty-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 6,340 miles per year. Between April 2022 and April 2023, the car covered 1,900 miles, suggesting periods of very low usage which often preserves drivetrain components and interior trim. The jump of 1,418 miles between the May 2024 and April 2026 tests shows a recent return to a more regular usage cycle. This low annual mileage generally reduces wear on the engine and gearbox but can occasionally increase the risk of rubber perish, fluid degradation, and brake corrosion due to long periods of standing. A buyer should focus their physical inspection on the structural integrity of the chassis and suspension mounting points as vehicles of this era are prone to hidden rust in the sills. While the MOT history is clean, the high total mileage and age necessitate checking for perished suspension bushes, worn control arms, and leaking shock absorbers. Inspect the braking system specifically for binding calipers or corroded lines, as the intermittent usage pattern noted in the mileage can lead to surface pitting on discs that are not frequently used.