Mazda MX5 Mk1 adverts - all have new V5C at time of selling

[icklecar]

I’m looking to buy a Mk1 Mazda MX5 preferably in marina blue. I’ve been looking for 9 months. Nearly all, if not 100% of the adverts (not just the marina blue ones) for sale have a V5C issued at the time of selling. Having never bought an old car before, it just seems a bit odd especially when it is not addressed in the description. When I message to ask more questions I don’t get a response. Am I being overly cautious or is it a scam? Thank you!

[sixor8]

Isn't that a good thing, in that they are admitting that the car is 'in trade?'

If you do a car tax check using the registration, you can check this. A car with valid VED or SORN is still registered to a private keeper. If it is 'untaxed,' then it is in the trade, especially since it will be using the date it came into the trade. Anything untaxed on the 1st of the month may be an oversight by a private seller:


https://vehicleenquiry.service.gov.uk/

[RSTurboPaul]

A lot of older cars have been fetching strong money. I suspect 'driveway traders' will be buying up facebook sales and punting them on with a new V5.

[icklecar]

Thank you both. I’ve completed the registration check on all the vehicles which is where it showed the recent V5C change. Okay so more than likely the cars have been bought up by trade to sell on rather than it being stolen or something else.

[Belle427]

Surprises me the trade would suddenly start buying them as they can be a rusty mess if you don't know what your looking at.

[Nickp82]

Passing to trade doesn’t issue a new V5.