Im thinking about buying a 89 xjs12. It doesn't run and has a bit of rust. I love these cars. Its only $500 Canadian. Am I in for a world of hurt. I cant see it go to the scrap yard.

 

Are you referring to an XJS with the 5.3L V12 (coupe), or an XJ12 (sedan with the 5.3L V12)?

I'd say post some pictures for a definitive opinion, but based on (1) the price, (2) the rust, and (3) the non-running condition, I'd say this car isn't worth saving.

If they only want $500, my guess is something majorly wrong with the engine. And rebuilding a Jag V12 is $6k +

My guess is you're looking at over $10k to get this one back into running, driving, presentable condition if its even possible. Sorry to rain on your parade.

 

It is the coupe convertible. I thought if all else fails put in my 350 chevy as a last resort. I need a project.

 

I bought a non-running 89 convertible last October on eBay. It has taken me several months of die-hard work, but I have to admit its looking and running pretty good. We have no idea of this cars overall condition. At 500.00, it "may" could be parted out for a profit. Or, it "could" be saved. We need more info, pics, to give you much advice.

 

And buying a running drivetrain from a wreck to do a swap is about $1k

 

I purchased my 90 convert for $1,250 and it has a great body with no rust, with a overheated motor and wore out suspension. I won't need to paint it but I have spent about 7.5k above that on parts. And I still need to put at least another 2-3k. And I started 2 years ago. If I were to do it again I would have spent 10k on a great one.

 

go for it. i paid a lot more than that for a good condition XJS that didnt run very well. world of hurt? check. world of financial loss? probably not.