1991 Mercedes-Benz 300 3.0L Petrol · J283 EFU

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a long-term trend of escalating structural and mechanical age-related issues. The most recent test in January 2024 at 232,627 miles identified a worn rear subframe pin or bush and slight free play in the steering box. While the vehicle passed, these entries indicate a slow progression of wear in the steering and suspension components that requires monitoring. The overall condition appears stable but demands proactive attention to prevent minor defects from becoming critical failures. At 35 years old, the recorded 232,627 miles represent an average of approximately 6,600 miles per year, which is consistent with typical usage for a classic vehicle. The mileage data shows consistent annual testing, though the interval between the October 2022 and January 2024 tests shows very little movement, with only 1,218 miles covered.. This low annual mileage suggests the car is driven sparingly, which often correlates with the types of degradation in rubber components and the accumulation of corrosion seen throughout the record. Significant attention must be paid to the structural integrity of the chassis. A failure occurred in October 2020 due to excessive corrosion on the nearside front integral body structure, which seriously affected its strength near a body mounting. Although the vehicle passed subsequently, structural rust is a primary concern for a Mercedes of this era. Additionally, the record shows a persistent history of corroded coil springs across multiple corners between 2018 and 2019, suggesting the underbody environment is conducive to significant oxidative damage. The braking and sealing systems show a pattern of reactive maintenance. Front and rear oil leaks have been noted in almost every test since 2012, indicating chronic weeping that has not been fully rectified. The braking system has seen flags for thin pads, worn discs, and deteriorated brake hoses over the years. A buyer should verify the current state of the brake lines and inspect the condition of the steering box specifically, as the tester has already flagged play in that area during the most recent inspection.