1997 Aston Martin Virage 5.3L Petrol · P564 HAY

The Aston Martin Vantage’s most recent MOT, conducted on 17 May 2024 at 18,090 miles, passed without any defects—a clean outcome following an immediate prior failure on 23 April 2024 at 18,056 miles. The absence of defects in both tests suggests no major mechanical or structural issues were present during this brief window, though the failure itself is unusual given the lack of recorded faults. The rapid succession of tests—just 24 days apart—implies the vehicle was likely presented for retest shortly after the initial failure, which may indicate a procedural or administrative issue rather than a genuine roadworthiness concern. No advisories or recurring defects appear in the record, meaning there’s no evidence of worsening problems in suspension, brakes, or emissions systems over this period. However, the sparse data leaves critical gaps: without advisories or prior test failures, it’s impossible to assess long-term maintenance patterns or hidden wear. The Vantage’s mileage of 18,090 miles over 29 years—approximately 624 miles annually—is exceptionally low for a classic sports car, even accounting for occasional use. Such minimal mileage raises questions about storage conditions, exposure to the elements, or prolonged periods of inactivity, all of which can accelerate corrosion, degrade rubber components, and stiffen suspension bushes. The lack of mileage accumulation also means traditional wear items like tyres, brake pads, and clutch components may have been neglected, as they typically degrade based on usage rather than age alone. The absence of any recorded mileage between the two 2024 tests (just 34 miles over 24 days) further suggests the car may have been kept in a controlled environment, possibly garaged, rather than subjected to regular driving. This could imply either meticulous preservation or a vehicle that has seen very little actual use. For a prospective buyer, the primary focus should be on components that degrade over time regardless of mileage: the suspension system, including rubber bushes, coil springs, and dampers, all of which can perish from age and lack of movement. Binding calipers or seized brake mechanisms are unlikely given the clean MOT history, but the brakes should still be tested for corrosion or fluid degradation, as these systems can fail silently in low-mileage cars. Structural integrity is another critical area—check for surface rust on sills, wheel arches, and underbody panels, as prolonged storage can trap moisture and accelerate corrosion. The exhaust system, if original, may also show signs of deterioration, particularly if the car has been left in damp conditions. Finally, verify the condition of the battery, as classic cars with minimal use often suffer from deep discharge or sulphation. Without a full service history, these areas demand particular scrutiny.