When the pre '60 brigade got MOT exemption, it turned out that only 5% or so continued to get their cars tested, which surprised me a little, but most of these are "sunny Sunday" cars and very few indeed are daily drivers, these few are probably the 5%.
In contrast, the general opinion so far, on this new exemption, is that most people seem more than willing to keep testing their 40+ cars, not just here, but on most of the other forums and FB groups I frequent.
It may be to do with the fact that these "younger" cars get used more, or the fact that they generally have higher performance, or it MAY be (shock horror!) an attack of common sense!
Since both my over 40s are modifieds, I'm having them voluntarily tested (I would have anyway) to avoid even being asked the question!
As has been amply covered before, an MOT is not worth the paper it's printed on by the time you drive off the testing station forecourt, at least in terms of roadworthiness certification. But it IS a sign that you have done "due diligence" maintaining your car to a decent standard and getting it checked by a qualified independent 3rd party on a regular basis. And if I was to be buying a classic car (not the usual "projects" that I tend to buy, but a running driving car) then I would want to see a fresh ticket on it, regardless of whether it's exempt or not!
On brake testing, yes a good hard stop on a dry straight road will give you pointers, it will rarely show something like a seized rear wheel cylinder or sticking handbrake linkage. So, if, like most people, you don't have rollers, you can't do a proper brake test yourself!
Steve
_________________ '73 2 door Toledo with Vauxhall Carlton 2.0 8v engine (The Carledo)
'78 Sprint Auto with Vauxhall Omega 2.2 16v engine (The Dolomega)
'72 Triumph 1500FWD in Slate Grey, Now with RWD and Carledo powertrain!
Maverick Triumph, Servicing, Repairs, Electrical, Recomissioning, MOT prep, Trackerjack brake fitting service.
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