The verdict

As last Saturday I was working on the replacement of the distributor cap I also had the opportunity to do a good overall check up underneath the car as well. Effectively everything looked to be in very good shape: exhaust, shocks, springs, suspension, bushings, brakes. The bad bodypoint mentioned by the first owner appeared to be visible as well but surely was still reasonably ok. I could not see any other rust severe points.

The steeringhouse and pump were a bit greasy and hinted towards leakage but it likely is going to be very minimal.

In any case this was also a good moment to check the steering pump oil level. This appeared to be below the minimum. Once filled up accordingly the whining noise was gone and the steering went smooth again. Felt like a wheeler dealer moment. One point of the list.

One other point that was visible though, the lower balljoints on both sides had a teared rubber cap. This would be a failing point for the MOT but obviously not a big or expensive job:

By now I also received some repair invoices from the previous owner. One invoice specifically states that these rubber caps have been replaced. Yeah right!

Furthermore the invoice specified 2 new front tyres, new front brake pads, revision of the left brake caliper and one new battery.

So taking everything in account it looks like a very decent car for a decent price. Hopefully the other remaining points will be easy to overcome at minimal costs.