MERCEDES 2801981 · 2.8L PETROL

This 1981 Mercedes 280 presents a highly concerning history that suggests significant structural and mechanical decay. While the recorded mileage is low for a vehicle of this age, the MOT records indicate that the car has spent long periods off the road or poorly maintained, leading to severe degradation. The most alarming trend is the recurring structural corrosion. The 2018 and 2022 MOT failures highlight deep-seated rot in the chassis legs, inner wheel arches, and brake servo mounting areas. These are critical safety points; corrosion that compromises the rigidity of the body structure or the integrity of the braking system is a major red flag for a classic car. Beyond the structural issues, the 2022 failure report reveals a vehicle in a state of advanced neglect. The list of faults included a leaking fuel hose, failing brakes, worn sub-frame bushes, and a wide array of electrical and lighting failures. The fact that the vehicle has not had an MOT since March 2022 suggests it has been standing for over four years, which often leads to seized components, perished rubber seals, and internal engine issues that do not show up on a test certificate. The mileage data is ambiguous. While the low average annual mileage might suggest light use, the rapid accumulation of severe faults indicates that the car was likely left to deteriorate in poor storage conditions rather than being carefully preserved.