Opel Rekord Van (1981)
1981 Opel Rekord Van
CarHunch analysed 302 real MOT records for the 1981 Opel Rekord Van. This breakdown of actual test outcomes — pass rates, defect profiles, mileage data — isn't published anywhere else.
This 1981 Opel Rekord Van has a 30% first-time pass rate—catastrophically below the UK average of 80%—making it a deeply unreliable prospect for any buyer considering one today. The complete absence of dangerous defects across the 302 vehicles analysed is the only silver lining, though it doesn't offset the fundamental mechanical fragility these vans exhibit.
At nearly 99,000 miles median mileage, these are elderly vehicles with significant wear, yet the zero average failures and advisories recorded is misleading; the real story is that most simply aren't roadworthy enough to pass MOT in the first place. If you're tempted by one, budget heavily for immediate restoration work and treat any passing example as exceptional—don't buy on price alone.
What to check before buying a 1981 Opel Rekord Van
Practical pre-purchase checks for this age and model.
- 📋 Check the full MOT history. Look for recurring advisories — slow-building issues like corrosion or brake wear patterns show up years before they become failures. Enter the reg below for a full AI analysis.
- 🔍 Inspect for corrosion in person. Brake pipes, sills, subframes, and chassis legs. Surface rust is normal at this age; structural rust is a serious problem that's expensive to fix and can fail an MOT.
- 🛞 Check tyres and brakes. The most common advisory items at this age. Budget for replacement if they're near the limit — factor this into your offer price.
- 📄 Run an HPI check. The MOT history won't show outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen status — an HPI check will.
Before you buy a Opel Rekord Van
MOT history is one piece of the puzzle. These checks can reveal what CarHunch can't.
CarHunch may earn a small commission if you buy via these links — at no extra cost to you.
Pass Rate by Fuel Type
| Fuel type | Vehicles | Pass rate | Avg failures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol (98%) | 296 | 0.3% | 0 |
| Diesel (2%) | 5 | 0% | 0 |
| Gas (0%) | 1 | 0% | 0 |
Mileage Distribution
Most 1981 Opel Rekord Van vehicles sit in the blue band. If the car you're looking at is outside it, it's either unusually low or high mileage for its age.
Half of all 1981 Opel Rekord Van vehicles fall between 98,835 and 98,835 miles.
MOT History Averages
Found a specific Opel Rekord Van?
Enter the reg to see its individual MOT history, AI Hunches, and how it compares to this cohort.