1997 Mercedes-Benz 412 D 2.9L Diesel · P107 XAW

The 1997 Mercedes-Benz 412 D presents a stable roadworthiness status with no recorded defects across its five most recent MOT tests. The November 2025 test at 128,288 miles passed clean, continuing an unbroken pass trend since at least 2021. The maintenance record shows no worsening faults, advisories, or recurring mechanical issues that would suggest deferred upkeep. Recorded mileage sits at 128,288 miles against 29 years of age, an average of roughly 4,424 miles per year. The vehicle was tested at 94,872 miles in June 2021, then 100,503 miles in April 2022, showing light annual use. A notable gap appears between the April 2022 and October 2023 tests where only 15,675 miles were added, yet the next two tests in November 2024 and November 2025 recorded 116,838 and 128,288 miles respectively, with just 11,450 miles across that final year. The sparse, clean history offers little evidence of hard use or neglect. A buyer should still commission an in-person inspection of structural integrity and corrosion points typical of a 1997 panel van, particularly chassis rails, sills, and suspension mounting areas. Although no advisories were raised, the DVSA test does not strip components; front suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake discs should be physically checked for age-related fatigue. Given the low mileage and clean pass record, previous owners appear to have kept basic statutory compliance current. The absence of flagged binding calipers, exhaust emissions failures, or tyre tread defects implies reasonable care, though standing periods implied by low annual use can hide perished rubber and seized linkages not visible on a pass certificate.