2007 Alfa Romeo Spider 3.2L Petrol · RV07 LJF

The Alfa Romeo Spider’s most recent MOT in June 2025 confirms it remains roadworthy, though the record reveals a pattern of deferred maintenance rather than outright failure. The last two tests (2024 and 2025) passed without defects, suggesting the vehicle was driven to inspection without critical issues. However, the 2023 and 2022 tests expose a history of neglect—tyre conditions deteriorated to legal limits, wheel welds were required, and brake components showed corrosion and repairs. The absence of advisories in the last two tests implies these issues were addressed, but the recurrence of wheel welds and tyre wear indicates a lack of consistent upkeep. Buyers should note that while the car passed its most recent test, the trend suggests it has been driven with minimal preventive care. The recorded mileage of 65,288 miles over nearly 19 years—approximately 3,436 miles annually—is unusually low for a vehicle of this age, suggesting it has spent extended periods either stored or lightly used. The mileage increments between tests are consistent, with roughly 260 miles accumulated between each annual MOT, which aligns with typical annual driving patterns. There are no gaps longer than a year between tests, meaning the vehicle was not left uninspected for extended periods. While low mileage can reduce wear on high-stress components like suspension or drivetrain, it also raises questions about how the car was stored, as prolonged inactivity can accelerate issues like brake corrosion or tyre degradation. The most critical areas for an in-person inspection should focus on the suspension and wheel bearings, given the repeated mention of welded wheels in 2022 and 2023. The near-side rear wheel was welded twice within a year, which could indicate either a structural weakness or repeated damage from road debris. Buyers should also scrutinise the brake system, particularly the offside front brake pipe corrosion and the repaired brake servo hose from 2023. Binding or uneven brake wear, especially on the offside front, should be checked, as should the condition of the brake pipes and hoses for further corrosion or leaks. Tyres remain a concern—while the most recent test passed, the history shows they were driven to legal limits and suffered edge wear, suggesting alignment or loading issues may persist. Finally, the suspension bushes and coil springs should be inspected for excessive play or cracking, as these components often degrade gradually without immediate failure.