1996 HMC Sportscars Mkiv 3.9L Petrol · N427 COP

The vehicle shows a mixed maintenance profile with a recent trend towards resolving long-standing mechanical issues, though it remains subject to intermittent emissions failures. The most recent test on 28 March 2026 at 37,141 miles resulted in a pass with no defects, following a failure just two days prior on 26 March 2026. That failure was caused by carbon monoxide levels exceeding limits during the exhaust emissions test. This suggests that while the engine has recently met compliance standards, the emissions system requires close monitoring to ensure stability. The mileage pattern confirms this is a very low-use vehicle, having covered only 37,141 miles in approximately thirty years. The average annual usage of roughly 1,238 miles is exceptionally low, which often correlates with vehicles that spend significant time stationary. This pattern is evident in the data, showing very small increments between tests, such as the 335-mile increase between the March 2025 and March 2026 tests. While low mileage reduces drivetrain wear, it can contribute to the specific issues noted in the history, such as binding brakes and fluid leaks. A prospective buyer should focus their physical inspection on the steering and braking systems. The record shows a persistent history of play in the steering rack inner joints, a fault flagged repeatedly from 2014 through 2023. Although the most recent tests do not list this, the long-term presence of steering rack play suggests the component may be nearing the end of its service life or has been subject to wear from inactivity. Similarly, the braking system has a documented history of fluctuating performance and binding rear calipers, most recently noted in the March 2025 advisories. The engine bay also requires scrutiny due to a recurring pattern of oil leaks noted in almost every test from 2021 through 2025. While these were consistently described as not excessive, the frequency indicates a chronic weeping of fluids that could worsen. Finally, the history of brake pipe corrosion and headlamp reflector defects suggests that while the car is mechanically functional, the aging materials and seals are prone to degradation. A thorough check of the chassis for corrosion and the integrity of all rubber seals and hydraulic lines is advised.