I have a chance to purchase a 1989 XJ40 VDP with 110k miles on it. Immacylate condition. Zero rust. Only issue is the passenger door will not open from outside. I know nothing about these. He wants 2800.00 for it. Garaged. Is there lots of issues with these? I do some work on cars, brakes, things like that. Am i in over my head with purchasing this?

 

Door handles are a weak point but can be replaced, or in a pinch, repaired. Lots of topics and help available in the forums.
I think we've all had to swap out a handle or two, I certainly have!

Larry

 

Hi smb985,

Welcome to the Jaguar Forums!

That sounds like a truly special car. Jaguars have their own idiosyncracies so owning one requires a willingness to research and learn, but as Larry said, there is a tremendous amount of information and user knowledge available on these forums and others. The biggest problem you may face is that many of the parts have been discontinued, so the only options are to find good salvaged parts or to repair the parts you have.

I can't tell you whether the asking price is fair, but personally I would offer less and try to save some of your cash to apply toward parts you will inevitably need down the road. For example, the rubber bushings in the suspension deteriorate with age regardless of mileage.

If you purchase the car, let us know and we'll load you up with reference materials to get you started on the right track.

Cheers,

Don