I took part in the consultation over this (But I think exemption was always the plan) and expressed the opinion that testing may well need to be put in the hands of specialists and that it should be done on the basis of use, rather than by the calender. As it stands, I will get mine done every 1000 miles (Which is when I grease the suspension and change the oil....though I had been doing it at MOT time of late), just to make sure the brakes are all pulling as they should and to let a second pair of eyes look at it. I am lucky that the local garage understand older cars, having got a Frogeye, Healey 100/6, Jensen Intercepter and an MGA Mk2. If they ever quit.........
My father well remembers what it was like before there were MOTs. I think most classic owners are more aware of what goes on, that what I refer to as the "Coal in the bath" motorists and that few will see MOT exemption as a carte blanche to get away with murder. However I know that some will take chances and any resultant accidents will have a disproportionate effect on the opinions of the ill informed. People have a tendency to judge things by their own standards and experience so since most people only have experience of old cars, as old bangers (The cars, not the owners), anything older than their heap was must be proportionately more clapped out. If one unroadworthy old car causes and accident, this would only reinforce the unfounded assumptions of such people.
I've seen two things regarding modified cars. I had a letter from the Department of Transport, which mentioned that a 15% power to weight ratio increase would mean a vehicle was subject to an MOT, unless the modifications were done before 1988. The latest FBHVC newsletter didn't mention power to weight ratio but suggested the date was rolling. I had raised the issue of proof (I have invoices for when my cars were altered) and it seems there are no plans to insist on proof (How can anyone really check up?). It was for this reason that I originally suggested that modifications should be period mods, no matter when carried out, so a 1275 A Series in a Morris Minor would be OK but not a Ford Zetec.
I've asked my insurers how they view MOT exemption and they said if that's the law, that's it. The added however that if a car had been checked or given an MOT, it could help the owner if there was an accident.
To sum up I think how it pans out is up to all of us. We've been shown some trust; let's not abuse it. I don't want to get into politics but if ever Labour get in again (I think
when is more apt), we can expect another Brownline, that will freeze road tax exemptions and presumably MOT exemptions for the duration. If all Abingdon MGs and RWD Escorts come in from the cold, I think we'll be lucky. How do I know this
Labour refuse to answer my questions, whether directed via my local MP or via party HQ. I think they assume all classic car owners are filthy rich and I also think they feel they can be seen to be
tough on the environment by using us as scapegoats. Let's face it, there aren't enough of us to swing an election.
Rules exist for the obedience of fools and the guidance of wise men.
MG Midget 1500, MGB GT V8, Morris Minor Traveller 1275, MG Midget 1275 & too many bicycles.
) will suddenly be dragged out of their hedges, barns and holes in the ground, given some quick attention with the blind riveter, slathered with underseal and sold to unsuspecting newcomers to this hobby of ours. I'm pretty sure that this concession will end in tears, am I worrying for nothing?
