The Triumph 2500 S presents a stable and reassuring roadworthiness record. The most recent MOT, conducted on 20 August 2024 at 91,355 miles, passed with zero defects recorded. This clean sheet is consistent with the broader pattern. The vehicle has passed every recorded MOT, with the only entries showing a fail status on two occasions (08 April 2022 and 30 August 2017) both at 90,905 and 90,890 miles respectively, yet neither failure lists any recorded defects. These appear to be administrative or procedural retests rather than mechanical failures. The maintenance trend is stable, with no recurring faults, no advisories, and no evidence of worsening mechanical condition over the documented history.
The mileage pattern tells a clear story of very light use. Between the 2017 and 2024 tests, the car covered just 465 miles over seven years, averaging roughly 66 miles annually in that window. The jump from 90,890 miles in August 2017 to 90,905 miles by April 2022 represents only 15 miles over nearly five years. This is exceptionally low annual mileage, around 1,827 miles per year over the vehicle's full life. Such figures suggest long periods of standing, which carries its own risks despite the low wear on drivetrain and braking components.
Low mileage does not eliminate the need for careful inspection. A vehicle standing for extended periods can develop seized brake calipers, perished rubber bushes, deteriorated hoses, and fuel system issues. The fuel system, brake fluid, and coolant should all be checked for condition and freshness. Tyres may show legal tread yet carry aged rubber with sidewall cracking from age rather than wear. Suspension components, including bushes, ball joints, and coil springs, should be inspected for deterioration that comes from sitting rather than use.
The structural integrity of the bodyshell deserves close attention. A 1976 Triumph of this era is susceptible to corrosion in sills, floor pans, wheel arches, and around the windscreen frame. Even with low mileage, moisture ingress during long stationary periods can accelerate rust in enclosed sections. A thorough underside inspection is essential before purchase. The clean MOT record is encouraging, but it reflects only the condition at the time of testing and does not guarantee the current state of perishable components that degrade with age regardless of use.