1976 XJ-S (11/75 Build date) 48,521 miles.
It's been sitting since 1987.
Only surface rust on the body. Can't really see underneath.
Interior in amazingly good condition. It does need a new headliner.
All parts are there. Chrome parts were removed and stored in the car.
So, is it a good project or just a parts car?

 

Parts car

Cheers
DD

 

Parts car

 

That engine should fire on the first crank with a new battery. And the paint should buff right up with a quick once over.

 

Is there a Door #3 Monty?

 

?? In a few years when prices are soaring, and investors / speculators are driving up demand... an early car like this will command an unholy premium.

People on this very forum will scream how such an early model needs to be saved.

If it's complete and you can get it for free, or have a few spare dollars to throw around or put it in storage until you're ready, snag it. You won't be sorry.

 

I agree 100%.

The less there are, the more they command.

 

Also agree 100%. In the UK an absolutely derelict, but all the bits there however rusty, early E Type sold for over 140,000 USD (sterling equivalent) a month or two ago. The buyer will be spending another 120,000 STERLING (180,000 USD) to put it back into as new condition. Our time will come.
Greg

 

I totally agree. I traded the owner an old Jeep for the Jag and a few other bits. My plan is to clean it up, sand the body to get rid of the surface rust, shoot some primer sealer and put it somewhere safe and warm for a while.

 

Lucky you. You wont go wrong. Those old first cars are going to be worth more than the rest.

 

I'd usually say "Parts Car". However...and this is a BIGGGG HOWEVER! Considering its an early model I might take a second look. Offer $500.00 and no more than $800.00 for it.
If, upon detailed examination, the car seems to be solid with MINIMAL rot you may want to consider re-commisioning/restoration. The car has been sitting for damn near thirty years so everything will have to be rebuilt or replaced (including the motor, tarns and diff). If the body is solid and the interior half decent it may be possible to bring this car back for only a moderately large sum$$ to do it right. If the body is rotted and the interior shot part it out and get as much of your $500-$800 back as you can. My estimate is a minimum of $20 large and probably closer to $30 large to bring this car back. Be honest with yourself re initial condition otherwise this car will very quickly become an immensley expensive$$ s**tbox that will consume you!

I see you traded an old Jeep for it - good start.

 

Pete, be sure to document her restoration process - would love to see pics and come along for the ride!

 

Get the Jeep back. whatever vintage or condition!!!!


Tongue in cheek/ Only partly.....


Did errands in my Jeep yesterday. Solid dependability..... Straight, shiny, tight and runs nicely. Oh, only 21 years old and only about 220,000 miles.


Carl

 

Are my eyes deceiving me or is that a red roof?

 

Yup, the roof is red. I don't know the whole story but the car was originally BRG. It was shot all over with a coat of primer before being parked. I have no idea why the roof is red!

I'll be doing a little sanding tomorrow to see what's going on under the primer. The plan is to sand, spray some rust converter followed by a coat of epoxy primer.

 

Interesting. Would be great to see some shots of the interior. Maybe you should treat the leather soon too with a softener.

 

I agree with treating the leather. I'll also be removing the carpets and padding.

 

. . . and here's my real parts car: ;-)

 

On your parts car, is the rear window intact? I need a total replacement window for my 93 XJS coupe..

 

I believe it is. I'll be going out there tomorrow and will see for sure.