LOTUS ECLAT1986 · 2.2L PETROL

The roadworthiness status of this Lotus Eclat is currently indeterminate due to the absence of a valid MOT certificate for over nine years. The last recorded test occurred on 28 February 2017 at 58,667 miles, resulting in a pass with a minor advisory regarding play in the offside front anti-roll bar bush. While the vehicle successfully passed its last three inspections, the significant lapse in testing suggests the car has likely been in long-term storage, which presents a high risk of seized mechanical components and fluid degradation that will not be reflected in the historical data. The recorded mileage of 58,667 over four decades indicates an average annual usage of approximately 1,467 miles, a figure consistent with a classic vehicle used sparingly. The odometer has remained static at 58,667 miles between the 2014, 2016, and 2017 tests, confirming the car has seen negligible road use in its recent history. Such low mileage often masks underlying issues related to inactivity, particularly regarding rubber seals, fuel system integrity, and potential internal engine corrosion from standing for extended periods. Prospective buyers must prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension and braking systems, as the 2013 test highlighted recurring deterioration in the lower suspension arm bushes and pitting on the brake discs. Given the age of the vehicle and the long period of disuse, the structural integrity of the chassis and body mounts requires careful scrutiny for corrosion that may have developed since the last inspection. The reported oil leak and insecure interior trim noted in 2013 indicate that while the car passed its final tests, the mechanical and cosmetic condition may have declined significantly during its prolonged period off the road.