1986 Porsche 944 2.5L Petrol · C987 NHJ

The 1986 Porsche 944 in question carries a clean MOT history, with both available tests—from March 2023 and April 2025—resulting in a full pass without any recorded defects or advisories. The most recent test, just under 18 months ago, confirms the vehicle remains roadworthy under current DVSA standards, though it is critical to note that the absence of faults does not preclude underlying issues in components not routinely inspected, such as the drivetrain or internal suspension wear. The stability of the MOT record suggests either consistent maintenance or a vehicle that has not yet reached the threshold for common failure points, but the low mileage complicates this assessment. The recorded mileage of 11,862 miles over approximately 40 years equates to roughly 297 miles per annum, a figure far below the average for a vehicle of this age. The gap between tests—over two years—is also notable, as it exceeds the typical 12-month MOT cycle, though this may reflect either infrequent use or a deliberate deferral of testing. The sparse data makes it difficult to establish a clear maintenance trend, but the low mileage implies minimal wear on high-mileage components like brakes, tyres, or suspension bushes. However, prolonged periods of inactivity can introduce other risks, such as degraded fluids, seized joints, or corrosion from moisture accumulation. Given the lack of MOT-reported issues, a prospective buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the coil springs, bushes, and track rods, as these are common failure points in older Porsche models. The braking system, while not flagged, warrants scrutiny for uneven wear, binding calipers, or corrosion on the rear discs—common in vehicles with low mileage but high age. The drivetrain, including the timing belt (if applicable) and differential, should also be examined, as these components are not routinely checked during MOTs and can degrade silently over decades of inactivity. Finally, a thorough corrosion assessment of the subframe, sills, and wheel arches is essential, as rust can compromise structural integrity without visibly affecting roadworthiness.