Auction RecapOctober 10, 2026

1985 Jaguar XJS sells for $1,500 on Bring a Trailer — was it a deal?

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This 1985 Jaguar XJ-S V12 project sold for a mere $1,500, and that's a deal that any savvy enthusiast should be excited about.

The XJ-S is a classic British sports coupe that embodies a certain charm and performance. With a 5.3-liter V12 engine and a three-speed automatic transmission, it offers a taste of luxury and power. The 68,000 miles shown on the odometer hints at a car with life left in it, despite being in need of some TLC. Finished in Tudor White with Isis Blue leather, it has the aesthetic appeal that many buyers crave. Plus, features like cruise control and automatic climate control make it a more comfortable ride, even as a project.

When it comes to price, $1,500 is remarkably low for a car like this. The bidding saw seven participants, which indicates some interest, but it likely didn't escalate due to the car's project status. Given that this XJ-S hasn’t been started in over a year, potential buyers are likely factoring in the costs of recommissioning. Considering the average market value for a running XJ-S can hover around the £5,000 to £10,000 range, this price is a steal. For a project car needing work, you could easily expect to pay around £3,000 to £4,000, making this sale a solid deal.

The community reaction was enthusiastic. One commenter noted, “Congrats @daytona55. I think it’s a gem tbh…was very close to pushing the bid button but the hassle of trailering it back to the continent made me hesitate.” This shows that even among potential bidders, there was recognition of the car's value, despite the project label.

For anyone looking at a similar car, pay attention to the condition of the engine and whether it's been started recently. Make sure to understand the recommissioning process and any potential costs involved. A car like this can be a rewarding project, but it’s crucial to know what you're getting into before making a move.

See all Jaguar XJS listings on [Friday's Watchlist](https://fridayswatchlist.com/search?make=Jaguar&model=XJS).

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1985 Jaguar XJS sells for $1,500 on Bring a Trailer — was it a deal? | Friday's Watchlist | Friday's Watchlist