1997 Mercedes SL 3.2L Petrol · P248 AKG

The vehicle has most recently failed its MOT on 28 July 2026. While the car enjoyed a period of clean passes in 2024 and 2025, the overall maintenance trend is now deteriorating. The most critical issue is a major failure regarding structural corrosion on the offside front chassis leg, which indicates a significant compromise to the vehicle's structural integrity. This, combined with recurring brake and suspension advisories, suggests that the vehicle has entered a phase of accelerated age-related decay that requires substantial professional remedial work to return it to a roadworthy state. With a recorded mileage of 99,839 miles over nearly three decades, the vehicle has averaged approximately 3,443 miles per year. This is considerably low for its age, suggesting it has been used primarily as a seasonal or leisure vehicle. While low mileage reduces wear on the engine and drivetrain, it often introduces specific risks associated with long periods of standing. The MOT history supports this, showing repeated issues with brake disc pitting and perishing rubber hoses, both of which are classic symptoms of a vehicle that spends significant time stationary in damp conditions. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the braking system and suspension. The recurring advisories for pitted and scored brake discs, alongside previous failures for brake efficiency and perishing hoses, indicate a system that has suffered from oxidation and material degradation. During a test drive, listen for grinding noises or feel for brake shudder and a spongy pedal. Furthermore, the worn shock absorber top mount bushes and the major chassis corrosion failure necessitate a professional inspection of the underbody. Any clunking or knocking sounds from the front suspension during low-speed maneuvers will likely be linked to these failing mounts or the compromised structural mounting area. Beyond the recorded failures, the low annual usage demands a thorough check of all rubber and fluid components. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for hairline cracking or perishing, as tyres often age out before they wear out on such vehicles. The history of a non-excessive oil leak suggests seals may be drying out; check the engine bay and driveway for fresh spots. Verify the service history to ensure that oils and coolants have been changed based on time intervals rather than mileage, as stagnant fluids can lead to internal corrosion. Finally, ensure the 12V battery is healthy and that the braking calipers are not binding, which is common in low-mileage cars that have sat for extended periods.