1997 Mercedes C 1.8L Petrol · P87 ESA

The vehicle maintains a functional roadworthiness status, though the maintenance history reveals a reactive rather than proactive approach to repairs. The most recent test on June 10 2025 at 151,364 miles resulted in a pass following a failure for perished front tyres, insufficient washer fluid, and underseal issues. While the immediate faults were rectified to achieve compliance, the recurring nature of tyre-related failures across the last three years suggests that the owner only addresses defects once they threaten the MOT test result. At 29 years old, the recorded mileage of 151,364 miles is remarkably low, averaging approximately 5,200 miles per year. The data shows consistent low-level usage between June 2023 and June 2025, with only 2,243 miles covered in those two years. This low mileage often correlates with long periods of the vehicle standing, which explains the persistent degradation of rubber-based components. The repeated reports of cracking and perishing on tyres in 2023, 2024, and 2025 are classic indicators of dry rot caused by age and inactivity rather than tread wear. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the underbody and structural integrity. The record mentions heavy underseal coating in 2024 and issues with the underseal in 2025, which can mask advanced corrosion on a Mercedes of this era. The previous failure for a fuel system leak in May 2023 and the persistent oil leak since 2023 require a close look at the fuel lines and engine seals to ensure no active weeping remains. Given the age and low mileage, the suspension bushes, brake hoses, and tyres should be checked for cracking and splitting, as the MOT history confirms the vehicle is prone to age-related material.