I love my cars, but I am afraid some of these dream machines are getting way beyond my – and the average punter’s – reach.
Here’s a case in point.
Recently, Mercedes-Benz in Germany set a new record of A$204 million for a 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, one of only two built.
But what is really interesting about this ‘racing car for the road’ is that it’s 66 years old and has had only one owner – Mercedes-Benz.
Now, if this car lived in Tasmania, having never changed hands, it’s possible it wouldn’t have had a roadworthy inspection since its original sale in 1956.
I don’t have a problem with people owning and enjoying older cars, but this highlights a ridiculous piece of legislation currently enacted in Tasmania where vehicles can be sold and purchased without being ‘run over the pits’ – regardless of age or condition.
The Tasmanian Department of State Growth has a solid roadworthy inspection system, however, it is limited to vehicle re-registration. No such inspection at sale or purchase time.
Ridiculous.
The rate of fatal crashes per registered vehicle is four times higher for vehicles aged 15 years or older, than for vehicles aged five years or less.
And the harsh reality is Tasmania has the worst safety record of any state, with 6.6 deaths per 100,000 population.
Now, as a fellow motorist, I understand mandatory roadworthies may not appeal. It’s another responsibility, another cost.
However, it seems to me the only way to go. When it comes to road safety, clearly there’s a higher price to pay if we do nothing.
Thoughts?
Words: TACC State Manager, Bruce McIntosh. As featured in The Mercury on 5 August 2022.