When can I apply for my Triumph Spitfire to have historic vehicle status?

I own a Triumph Spitfire that's just over 40 years old, registered on 14 February 1978. When do I apply for Historic status, now or after 21 May 2018?

Do cars registered before 1978 still need an MoT?

I've heard that cars registered before 1 January 1978 no longer need an MoT - is this right? The Government website doesn't seem to reflect this change.

Should I wait to get my 1971 Spitfire MoT'd?

I have a 1971 Spitfire IV on which the MoT expires in February, but which is currently garaged over winter. The tax runs to 1st May (its £0 now). Shall I wait until the new MoT exemption rules come in...