1983 Robin Hood Engineering 2 Seater Sports 2.0L Petrol · JKM 547Y

The latest MOT test for this Robin Hood Engineering two-seater sports vehicle, conducted on 2025-11-27, resulted in a pass with two advisories related to corrosion in the near-side and offside rear coil springs, both classified under 5.3.1 (b) (i). This follows a pattern of consistent MOT results over the past decade, with no failures and only minor or advisory defects, suggesting a generally stable maintenance record. The recurring advisories on ball joints and suspension components—particularly the front upper suspension arm and track rod ends—indicate a gradual wear progression that has been managed but not fully resolved. While the vehicle has not failed an MOT, the persistent play in these joints and the corrosion in the coil springs suggest that the suspension system is approaching a critical state, warranting closer attention before further deterioration compromises ride quality or safety. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 30,821 miles over approximately 43 years translates to an annual usage rate of around 717 miles, which is notably low for a car of its age and original specification. Such low mileage can often reflect periods of prolonged inactivity, particularly if the vehicle was stored in a garage or kept in a less demanding environment. However, low mileage alone does not negate the risk of hidden wear from standing, such as corrosion in suspension components, binding calipers due to moisture ingress, or fluid degradation from infrequent use. The advisories on ball joints and suspension bushings, despite their minor classification, may have been exacerbated by static loading or minor impacts during storage, leading to the observed slight play. A buyer should be cautious, as these issues could escalate rapidly if left unaddressed, potentially resulting in costly repairs or compromised handling. To conduct a thorough inspection before purchase, focus on the suspension and steering components, as these are the primary areas of concern. Visually inspect the coil springs for signs of rust or cracking, particularly around the points where the advisories were noted, and check for any sagging or uneven ride height that could indicate further corrosion or failure. On a test drive, listen for unusual clunks or rattles in the suspension, especially when transitioning between rough and smooth surfaces, which may reveal the extent of ball joint wear or bush degradation. The steering should feel firm but without excessive resistance, and there should be no noticeable play or binding when turning the wheel. Additionally, check for any oil leaks around the front suspension mounts or track rod ends, as the recorded oil leak advisories suggest potential fluid loss over time. Inspect the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs or binding calipers, particularly if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, as standing fluid can cause rusting and reduced braking performance. For practical checks beyond the MOT history, given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, pay particular attention to the condition of the tyres, as sidewall perishing or cracking from age can compromise structural integrity and safety. Ensure the tyres have sufficient tread depth and check for any signs of uneven wear, which could indicate suspension misalignment or camber issues. Verify the condition of the 12V battery, as low usage can lead to sulphation or poor terminal connections, which may cause starting difficulties or electrical gremlins. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks or excessive noise, as emissions-related advisories or corrosion in the catalytic converter could be present despite the vehicle passing emissions tests. Finally, check the service records for any time-based maintenance, such as fluid top-ups, brake fluid replacement, or suspension component servicing, which may have been overlooked due to infrequent use. If the vehicle has not been serviced in recent years, consider arranging a comprehensive mechanical inspection to address the suspension and steering issues before committing to purchase.