1987 Lotus Esprit 2.2L Petrol · D500 HEX

This 1987 Lotus Esprit presents a stable and highly encouraging roadworthiness status. The most recent MOT test on 14 August 2025 at 23,763 miles passed with zero defects, continuing a four-year streak of clean assessments. The maintenance trend is firmly resolving, having moved beyond the minor corrosion flagged in 2021. No recurring mechanical or structural issues currently compromise the vehicle's legality. The recorded mileage pattern is exceptionally low, averaging just 609 miles annually over the vehicle's 39-year lifespan. Looking closer at the recent history, the mileage accumulation has slowed to a near standstill, covering a mere 19 miles between the August 2024 and August 2025 tests. Such prolonged stationary periods can silently degrade rubber suspension bushes, tyres, and brake components through natural aging and moisture absorption, even if the mechanical wear from driving is negligible. The previous owner clearly treated this car as an occasional-use vehicle rather than a daily driver. Despite the clean recent MOT results, a physical inspection must focus on the structural and mechanical components highlighted by the 2021 test. The tester flagged a corroded front brake pipe covered in grease, which warrants close scrutiny to ensure the corrosion was not merely masked and has not worsened beneath the surface. The plastic sills and lower covers noted in the same test require checking for UV degradation and cracking, common issues on older fibreglass and plastic bodywork. Given the extended periods of inactivity, buyers must thoroughly inspect the condition of the suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake discs for surface corrosion, alongside checking the tyre sidewalls for age-related cracking and flat spots rather than just tread depth.