2023-02-09 00:23:15 | pauls writes:

Car offered at:
barnfinds.com/bf-auction-1986-jaguar-xj-s-he/

Seller's description:
This 1986 XJ-S HE is one of three Jaguars in a collection of barn finds listed by this seller, and it shows promise as a potential DIY project. It appears solid and complete, with enough options to make life pretty pleasant. It is listed exclusively here at Barn Finds Auctions.

The seller knows little about this XJ-S, as it is a project car that belonged to her late husband. However, there is much we can learn from the supplied photos. Its exterior wears Sebring Red paint which appears to hold a good shine beneath the layer of dust. The longer I look at the pictures, the more I want to break out the bucket and sponge and wash it. The panels are straight, featuring tight gaps and no evidence of rust. Someone has fitted what appears to be a Lister body kit that includes a deep front spoiler, side skirts, a rear spoiler on the trunk lid, a rear diffuser below the bumper, and rear fender flares. Removing those items would not be difficult, but they give this XJ-S a sense of purpose. Some chrome items would benefit from a trip to the platers, although others might be fine with a polish. The glass looks good, and this car benefits from a factory sunroof.

This Jaguar’s interior is serviceable for a driver-quality classic, and lifting it to a higher level would not be difficult. The leather seat upholstery is crying out for a dose of conditioner, while the remaining upholstered surfaces require cleaning. The dash pad hasn’t succumbed to UV damage, but the clear coat is peeling away from the walnut trim. The headliner is sagging in places, but the buyer might be able to glue this without resorting to replacement. Overall, a deep clean would be a great starting point before compiling a shopping list for the interior. Demonstrating its luxury leaning, the interior features climate-control air conditioning, power windows, cruise control, a rear defroster, and a Clarion AM/FM radio/cassette player.

The seller supplies no engine photos, but it is safe to assume this classic hasn’t undergone any drivetrain upgrades. It rolled off the line powered by a 5.3-liter V12 that sent 262hp to the rear wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission. Unsurprisingly, power assistance for the steering and brakes was standard fare. Although it had strong luxury leanings and weighed 3,979 lbs, this XJ-S should cover the ¼ mile in 16.1 seconds before winding its way to 148mph if returned to a mechanically healthy state. The V12 is a complicated engine, but modern maintenance methods and parts can make them exceptionally reliable. Therefore, if the buyer can successfully revive it, this Jag could provide years of driving enjoyment.

Location: Elkins, West Virginia
Mileage: 71,342 Shown, TMU
Engine: 5.3-liter V12
Transmission: Automatic
VIN: SAJNV5846GC126062
Title Status: Clean