"The MOT isn't rocket science, as pointed out earlier, it isn't really about mechanical fitness. It is just about ensuring your vehicle meets the minimum safety standards. We are talking major chassis rusting, holes in columns or mounting areas that cause failure. Not a but of orange on the sills. Look under most cars, horrible."

You reckon?

Surely cars are tons better than they were....

When i was a kid in the 70s, you saw some real deathtraps arouind.  Victors/cortinas with holes in wings etc

You don't see it now.

(IMO) a ten year old body shell is usually as good new.....  or often is?.