1987 Morgan 4/4 1.6L Petrol · E378 BHJ

The most recent MOT, carried out on 25 July 2026, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle presently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. The earlier test in September 2023 also passed, while a failure recorded only a few days earlier in the same month concerned a non‑functioning off‑side rear fog lamp. The correction of that fault and the clean result at the latest test suggest an improving maintenance trend, with the owner having addressed the sole noted deficiency. With a recorded mileage of 6 988 mi after 39 years, the average utilisation works out to roughly 179 mi per annum, which is exceptionally low for a classic Morgan 4/4. Such limited use typically points to long periods of storage rather than regular road duty. While low mileage reduces wear on engine, transmission and brake components, prolonged inactivity can accelerate corrosion of chassis members, rubber component drying, battery sulphation and the perishing of tyre compounds. The mileage pattern therefore raises more concern about calendar‑related degradation than about wear from mileage accumulation. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the condition of the tyres, as the rubber can become brittle and develop sidewall cracks even if tread depth remains acceptable. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for any signs of dry rot, check the date code on the sidewall – any tyre older than six years should be considered for replacement regardless of mileage. The 12 V battery is likely to have suffered from extended periods of sitting; a load test or a professional battery health check is advisable, and the electrolyte level should be examined if it is a conventional lead‑acid type. Verify that the rear fog lamp now operates correctly and that the wiring harness shows no corrosion or cracked insulation, as the previous failure may have been symptomatic of a broader electrical ageing issue. Given the vehicle’s age and low‑usage profile, a thorough visual and tactile inspection of the suspension and steering assemblies is essential. Examine the rubber bushings, ball joints and coil springs for signs of cracking, loss of resilience or corrosion at mounting points, and listen for any clunking or excessive play during a low‑speed test drive. The brake system should be checked for surface rust on discs, seized caliper pistons and the condition of the brake fluid, which degrades with time and should be flushed at least every two years on a car of this vintage. Finally, inspect the under‑carriage for rust, especially around the frame and mounting brackets, and ensure that all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid – are at the correct specifications and appear clean, as time‑based fluid breakdown can lead to hidden wear even on a low‑mileage vehicle.