When compulsory testing was introduced in UK in 1960 the cost of a test was 15 shillings, which less than $1 today.
Our local testing garage charged 15 shilling if you took the car in to be tested, or one pound ($1.40) if you didn't!
Today the test is about $75 per year, and it is strict.
If you miss test, it shows online, and your car will 'ping' passing traffic cops.
Insurance is invalid without a certificate of passing test, and if car is impounded and fine not paid, it's scrapped.
Not many old bangers on the road these days!