A majority of UK drivers would welcome a specific MOT for classic cars, with many realising that the current exemption for 40-year-old models could lead to an increase in unsafe vehicles on the road.
In 2018, classic car MOT rules were changed to a rolling exemption for cars over 40 years of age, rather than just for those manufactured, or first registered, before 1960. This means that this year, cars built before 1 January 1986 are exempt, which could include anything from the Ferrari 328 to the last registrations of the Mk3 Escort.
The classic car MOT exemption only applies however, if the vehicle has not undergone any substantial changes to its main components within the last 30 years.
Yet a new study by Hagerty UK, which asked its database for enthusiasts about their opinion on classic car MOT exemption, has found many drivers are against the rules. Interestingly, 90% of those surveyed currently own a classic vehicle.
Need for specific classic car MOT
While 61% are in favour of the classic car MOT exemption, the reasoning given is due to the fact the current MOT is not suited to older vehicles. Therefore, 64% of respondents believe that a dedicated MOT for these cars would be a better option.
This suggests there is an appetite for reform. Some respondents commented that standard MOT testers often lack the knowledge to assess older vehicles, and that current test criteria (emissions, ABS warning lights, etc.) are inapplicable to exempt cars.
Among those who own MOT-exempt vehicles, 43% still choose to get them tested annually. Of those who don’t, 98% claim they maintain their vehicles to a standard where it would pass if tested.
The results of the survey also highlighted concerns over the safety of vehicles where a classic car MOT exemption is in effect. In total, 51% felt this helped drivers to use unroadworthy vehicles, while 69% believed the ruling makes it more likely for unsafe vehicles to be on the road.
Of all respondents, 21% said they have seen an older vehicle, subject to the exemption, being driven despite being in an unroadworthy condition.
When it came to the issue of cost, 44% felt that a classic car MOT should cost the same as the current test. Meanwhile, 43% said they would pay more to purchase a classic car that carried a valid MOT, even if it was exempt. A total of 47% felt that mandatory classic car MOTs would help to preserve older models for future generations.
“Our survey shows many classic vehicle owners have concerns over MOT exemption,” commented Mark Roper, Managing Director of Hagerty UK. “It is clear that many owners would welcome a classic-specific MOT test, one that proves roadworthiness with tests more appropriate for the age of vehicle.
“Most agree there should be some form of annual inspection, ideally by a classic car expert, particularly as many popular cars are now exempt from any form of annual test and can be driven freely regardless of condition.”
Safety first
Within the survey there was an area for respondents to write their own comments, with highlights including:
- No exemption please, don’t compromise on road safety
- Historic cars could be tested every other year due to not many miles being driven
- It should be tested in line with what was expected when the car was first in use
- Classic car owners maintain their vehicles better than ordinary cars
- There is no logical reason for allowing any potentially unsafe vehicle into our environment
- Cars will always deteriorate and it is in the interest of everyone to have a yearly inspection
- Heavy penalties for owners of MOT-exempt cars in unroadworthy condition
“We support regular safety and roadworthiness checks for historic vehicles that are exempt from the statutory MOT, particularly when a vehicle is being returned to the road after a period of storage, following restoration or significant mechanical work,“ added Dale Keller, CEO of the HCVA: Historic & Classic Vehicles Alliance.
“There is a clear rationale for the current exemption, not least because historic vehicles can require specialist knowledge to assess properly. However, we believe there is a strong case for developing an optional, industry-led roadworthiness inspection specifically for MOT-exempt historic vehicles.”
