Classic cars could undergo technical inspection for the first time after the majority of a public consultation backed the proposed measure.
More than two in five who responded to a Department for Transport (DfT) public consultation agreed that safety checks should be introduced for cars over 40 years old.
Under current rules, any vehicle registered more than 40 years ago no longer needs to undergo an annual MOT, as the general consensus is that these engines are owned by enthusiasts who care for them and work on them privately because the Most are precious assets.
No decision has been made yet, but it is a sign that older vehicles could be subject to checks including things like belts, headlights, tires and steering.
DfT officials asked whether cars over 40 years old should have “a new type of safety check that takes into account the age of a historic or classic vehicle.”
A government response to the consultation published in December said that “the majority of comments suggest that a new type of control is needed.”
A government response to the consultation published in December said that “the majority of comments suggest that a new type of control is needed.”
Around 4% of the 1,083 responses said classic or historic cars should undergo a full MOT or similar safety tests appropriate to their age.
While 36 per cent said no change was necessary, 41 per cent of the 1,083 responses said classic or historic cars should undergo a full MOT or similar age-appropriate safety tests.
Of those in favour, 18 per cent said tests equal to MOTs should be introduced and 10 per cent said “basic roadworthiness checks” are needed.
Eight per cent said there should be MOT style tests appropriate to the age of the vehicle, for example some do not need to be emissions checked.
And 5 percent thought ad hoc inspections should be done when a vehicle is used on the road or after a major restoration.
The Ferrari Testarossa, the supercar of the 80s, turns 40 this year. That means some examples will begin to qualify for historic vehicle exemptions.
Of all the unlikely ‘classic’ cars that will turn 40 in 2024, the Montego is near the top of the list. It was a big seller in the UK, although few are still in circulation today.
Arguably the largest hot hatch of the 1980s, Peugeot’s 205 GTi officially turns 40 in 2024. If you want to own one today, expect to pay a hefty price.
A government spokesman said the telegraph that any plans to introduce new safety tests for classic cars will be announced in due course.
“The safety of our roads is our top priority, and all car owners are responsible for ensuring their vehicle meets environmental and road safety standards,” the spokesperson said.
“Although classic cars do not need an MOT, a series of safety checks are still recommended for owners.”
Among the cars that will turn 40 years old in 2024 and therefore some UK examples that may start to qualify for the MOT exemption include the Austin Montego, the Ferrari Testatrossa and the Peugeot 205 GTi.