Xanadu

Yeah, I've known a car with two year old petrol in it start okay.

Maybe it's time to check the capacitors in your ECU.

You can, but they will just die sometime later, just like your post here...

1997, AT200, 7A-FE.

The AA charge from £191 for "vehicles of any age". https://www.theaa.com/vehicle-inspection/

My car is currently off the road, but I'll be using the same procedure after it's repaired.

I found one photo from Celica Hobby (2ZZ-GE)

I've done something similar in the past. Drive at 30-40mph, check that there isn't anyone close behind you, apply the handbrake for three seconds using light to moderate force, release and reapply once or twice more. Keep the handbrake release button held in while you do this.

Google > https://www.greenlightinsurance.co.uk/

How close to £8000 did you get?

Kev sent me a PM:

I think @Kev 16v sold his for £6000 and that had between 30 and 35 thousand miles on it.

Here's a 2004 example that sold recently. Car & Classic

Is it possible that the 'shim' was just a thick layer of rust that detached itself from the surface of the hub casting?

Make sure the money is in your bank account before releasing the car.