M113/k engines are some of the toughest and most reliable engines around. You’ll hear of the odd story, but they made literally tens of thousands of these things and most have never been opened up in 20+ years.
I’d wager a 230k mile standard car would be less troublesome than a tuned example or one that’s not been maintained as well with half the mileage. It works out at 11.5k PA, but I’d suspect it did most of those miles with the first owner - it could be more like a typical 100-150k mile example. How’s the drivers seat looking I wonder?
At this age, mileage and price point it’s best to just buy with your eyes. OP says it’s been well maintained and drives well, it’s priced about right considering the above - what’s the issue?
Yes I agree! Drivers seat isn't great, no tears or rips, just the foam isn't what it was. Is that an age or mileage thing, or both I don't know.
Cars don't get to that mileage without being maintained and having parts replaced. You also won't find a cheaper way to experience a 55k engine. Just buy it, you only live once, and if you lose half it's value that's still only 3k, and if you bought a super low-miler for £18k and the market changed a little, you could still lose 3k when selling. You'll also not be paranoid about using this one or leaving it places.
This is my line of thinking, cheapest way of having the experience without the paranoid thoughts of not using it enough.
As above, it might not be a complete 'Triggers Broom' but with that weight and power (and our roads) not all of it will be 230,000 miles old.
Brakes, certain suspension components, some mounts, some brackets etc will have been replaced.
Can you get an inspection beforehand at a local garage / indi just to understand what you'd be getting into?
I can tell by the MOT history it's had ball joints and lower arms. Brakes and suspension must of been replaced by engine and drivetrain seems original.
It looks like it did around 15k every year for the first 10 years according to the MOT.
Going to see if we can make a deal later today.