I only just saw this thread as I haven't been on here much lately as so few seem to come up for sale these days.
It would be interesting if there was a way around it.
A pre March 2001 1.4 MB Would also be preferable as the yearly tax on it is £175 compared to £265 for one registered after March 2001.
What puts me off doing it is that they could go and change the rules again at any time. I chose the compliant common 2006 petrol car I have now as something that I won't miss if I have to change it again.
I know that for non Euro 4 motorcycles and scooters there is a place that can do an actual emissions test. If the bike passes, it can be registered with TFL that it meets the emissions standards. As far as I know, this is not available for cars.