It’s time to test

While classics more than 40 years old are MoT-test-exempt is that a good idea? The Special doesn’t like any car being exempt from the annual test and Clayton Classics is also saying that owners should consider a test.

Recent DVSA figures suggest nearly a quarter of vehicles fail the test and with around 1.1 million vehicles in the historic vehicle class (of which 600,000 are licensed) there’s the question of just how may classic cars really shouldn’t be on the road.

“These MoT fail results for UK motorists are quite surprising and should act as a warning to all vehicle owners, no matter the age of the car, to consider the test,” says Clayton Classics director Dean Allsop.

“The good news is that classic car owners take a lot of care in their vehicles, and by taking a proactive approach to maintenance and checks, including an MoT, they can continue to enjoy their vehicle for years to come.”

Allsop says while a classic should be driven, with that comes obligations. A test appropriate to that vehicle would be sensible, he believes.

“Classic cars should be used and enjoyed, so having a good network of trusted contacts who can offer appropriate testing and advice really helps to get the best out of the vehicle. Keeping a classic car also comes with a level of responsibility, so an optional MoT that can be tailored to the features of the model is a sensible choice.”