At the moment i think the checker on the tfl website only calculates each vehicle based on first date of registration, If your vehicle register after 2006 then its exempt.
But yeah not good for people living in inner london boroughs
Shortstuff had a set of evo 9 on his DC5. Pictures are on his build thread below.
http://www.itr-dc5.club/forum/index.php?/topic/30481-shortstuffs-dc5-254bhp-beauty/page-7?hl=shortstuff
I bought one from America, so far so good! :)
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Brand-New-A-C-Condenser-AC-Condensor-5-STAR-EXPERIENCE-100-CUST-SATISFACTION-/130600023560?hash=item1e685e3608
If the gas has leaked out, then there won't be any pressure in the system to kick start the pump. Best bet is to regas the air con system with a dye and check for any leaks.