1993 Porsche 968 3.0L Petrol · K258 APF

The most recent MOT on 3 February 2026 was a pass, but it carried a series of advisories covering an oil leak, slight play on the front wheel bearing, minor rear brake fluctuation, slight rear wheel‑bearing play and corroded off‑side rear fuel pipe. Compared with the preceding year the vehicle moved from a failure in February 2025, where excessive corrosion of both rear suspension mounting points was recorded, to a clean pass in 2026. The pattern suggests that the major corrosion issues have been addressed sufficiently to satisfy the test, yet the persistence of oil‑leak and bearing‑play advisories indicates that the underlying wear sources remain active and the vehicle’s condition is stabilising rather than improving dramatically. At 137,552 mi the car averages roughly 4,200 mi per annum over its 33‑year lifespan, which is well below the typical usage for a sports‑car of this era. Such low annual mileage often points to long periods of inactivity as well as occasional use, a combination that can accelerate rubber and metal ageing. The relatively modest mileage reduces the cumulative wear on the engine, transmission and suspension, but it also raises the likelihood of tyre side‑wall perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion of under‑seal components that have been exposed to the elements while stationary. Prospective buyers should focus on the recurring oil‑leak advisory; locate the source – whether a valve cover gasket, oil filter housing or crankcase seal – and verify that the leak does not become excessive under load, watching the oil level after a short drive and listening for any oil‑drip sounds in the engine bay. The slight play noted on the off‑side front wheel bearing should be checked for grinding or humming noises that vary with road speed and load, and the bearing should be inspected for excessive end‑play when the wheel is rocked. The rear brake fluctuation and off‑side rear brake binding advisory merit a road‑test for any pulsation or uneven pedal feel, especially under hard braking, and a visual inspection of the caliper pins and disc condition for rust or glazing. The corroded rear fuel pipe on the off‑side should be examined for pitting, cracks or signs of leakage; any deterioration may require pipe replacement to avoid fire risk. Finally, verify that the under‑seal repairs on the rear suspension mounting areas are sound, checking for soft spots, rust streaks or dampness that could indicate a return of structural corrosion. Given the car’s age, even with low mileage, a thorough age‑related inspection is essential. Inspect all tyres for side‑wall cracking, dry rot or loss of tread depth irrespective of the wear indicators, as rubber can become brittle after a decade of storage. Examine the 12 V battery for sulphation, low cranking voltage and swollen cells, and consider a load test before purchase. Check the condition of the under‑seal and body panels for any hidden corrosion, especially around wheel arches, sills and the rear suspension mounting points that have previously been flagged. Finally, confirm that the service history includes calendar‑based fluid changes – coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil – as these degrade over time even when the car is not driven, and ensure that the clutch, steering rack and suspension bushings are free of excessive play or leaking grease before committing to the purchase.