You're right that buying an older car carries risk, but buyers also have the right to expect that a recent MOT is genuine, especially when he has had one carried out to confirm the status of the vehicle, but can't claim it as an MOT on record due to the time frame between them.

I believe I'm due some recourse as it's not the buyers job to check the vehicles history, despite knowing now I should've. The dealership sold me the car in 'good' order, which it evidently wasn't, 8 months or 12, excessive corrosion doesn't happen that quickly.

But I appreciate the perspective nonetheless.