For the purpose of this subchapter, the following definition shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
INOPERABLE MOTOR VEHICLES. Any motor vehicle which, for a period of at least seven days or any greater period fixed by law, the engine, wheels or other parts have been removed or in which the engine, wheels or other parts have been altered, damaged or otherwise so treated that the vehicle is incapable of being driven under its own motor power. INOPERABLE MOTOR VEHICLE shall not include a motor vehicle which has been rendered temporarily incapable of being driven under its own motor power in order to perform ordinary service or repair operations.
(`92 Code, § 25-4-1)