1971 Morris MINI Clubman 1.3L Petrol · FLR 540J

The most recent MOT test for this 1971 Morris Mini Clubman, conducted on 21 March 2022, resulted in a rare dual entry—both a pass and a fail at the same mileage of 72,970. This anomaly suggests either an administrative error or a test where the vehicle was initially deemed unroadworthy but later reconsidered, though no defects were recorded in either entry. Since then, there has been no further MOT testing, placing the current status at least four years out of date as of July 2026. Without intervening tests, there is no evidence of recurring or worsening issues, but the lack of recent inspection means critical components—such as suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake calipers—could have deteriorated beyond the original test’s parameters. The recorded mileage of 72,970 over approximately 55 years equates to around 1,327 miles annually, a figure unusually low for a vehicle of this age. This suggests either minimal use or prolonged periods of storage, which may have mitigated some wear but also risks accelerated corrosion from moisture exposure. The absence of mileage progression between the 2022 tests implies no significant usage in the intervening period, though this could equally reflect an oversight in updating the logbook. Given the car’s vintage, rust penetration in wheel arches, sills, and the subframe remains a high-risk concern, regardless of mileage. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension geometry, particularly the worn or cracked rubber bushes in the rear trailing arms and front wishbones, which are common failure points in this model. The brakes, though not flagged in 2022, warrant immediate attention—check for uneven wear on the rear drums or binding calipers, as the original test did not cover these areas in detail. Structural integrity is paramount; scrutinise the floorpan, rear sills, and wheel housings for corrosion that could compromise the chassis. Given the lack of recent MOTs, verify the condition of the exhaust system for leaks or sagging, as well as the electricals, where wiring degradation is often overlooked in older vehicles.