1971 Triumph Vitesse 2.0L Petrol · VCF 642K

The most recent DVSA MOT test on the Triumph Vitesse occurred on 2026-05-15, resulting in a clean pass with no recorded defects. This follows a consistent pattern of passing MOTs from 2015 onwards, with the only notable exceptions being a single failure in 2014 (due to parking brake inefficiency, brake imbalance, and steering issues) and a series of user-entered advisories and failures in 2014 related to steering column play, loose steering locks, and rear wheel bearing play. While the 2016 MOT included advisories about slight play in both rear wheel bearings, these were not deemed critical at the time, and the vehicle has since maintained a stable MOT record, suggesting that any underlying issues have either been addressed or are not progressing to failure. The absence of repeated failures or critical defects in the last decade indicates a generally well-maintained vehicle, though the presence of persistent steering and bearing advisories warrants careful attention during inspection. The recorded mileage of 85,446 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 55 years represents an exceptionally low annual usage rate of around 1,554 miles per year, which is far below the average for its era. Such low mileage can stem from infrequent use, long periods of storage, or a vehicle kept in a secondary role rather than daily operation. However, this usage profile raises concerns about potential wear from prolonged standing, particularly in critical components such as brakes, steering systems, and suspension. For example, standing vehicles can lead to brake disc corrosion, caliper binding, or uneven wear patterns due to friction from the rotor or caliper seals. Similarly, suspension bushes and steering components may degrade more rapidly when stationary, as they are not subjected to the dynamic stress of regular driving, potentially masking early failures until they become more pronounced. Given the MOT history and the vehicle’s age and mileage, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the steering and suspension systems. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as clunks, rattles, or grinding from the suspension, particularly when navigating bumps or corners, which could indicate worn coil springs, damaged shock absorbers, or failing suspension bushes. Check for uneven tyre wear, which may suggest misalignment or steering issues, and inspect the tyres for signs of dry rot, cracking, or excessive tread depth—especially on the sidewalls, where age-related perishing is more likely. The brakes should be tested for firmness and even application; if the parking brake requires excessive effort or drags when released, this could signal a failing caliper or brake pad. Additionally, examine the rear wheel bearings for excessive play, which the 2016 MOT advisories hint may persist, as this can lead to wheel vibration or noise at speed. For fluid and component checks, the buyer should verify the condition of the engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant, as these can degrade over time, even with low mileage. Given the vehicle’s age, the coolant should be replaced if it has not been serviced recently, as old coolant can corrode the water pump or freeze in cold climates. The 12-volt battery should be tested for charge capacity and clean terminals, as standing vehicles are prone to battery drain from parasitic loads or poor connections. Finally, check for any visible fluid leaks around the engine bay, transmission, or undercarriage, which could indicate failing seals or gaskets. If the vehicle has been stored in a damp environment, inspect the undercarriage for rust or corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and suspension mounts. A comprehensive service history would also be invaluable, but if unavailable, the buyer should focus on addressing the steering and braking advisories from the 2016 MOT and any signs of wear or corrosion related to prolonged inactivity.