1989 Jaguar XJS With 6k Miles Up for Grabs
The cosmetics of this XJS appear to reflect the low miles. But is 6k a little too low for comfort?
For years, many vintage Jaguars, like the XJ6 and XJS models, have never really climbed in value. But over the last few months, there have been some interesting discussions on the Forum about the collector potential of modern classics, like the XK and XKR. So I’ve been keeping an eye on some of older models, to see if that the ice might be about to crack — and I think this 1989 XJS recently listed on Bring a Trailer might be interesting to watch. Because it seems to have a lot going for it.
First, it’s Collection Rouge edition, meaning it’s painted Signal Red and features matching red basket-weave wheels. While my cursory searches seem to indicate this isn’t a particularly rare package, even as someone who doesn’t really go for red cars, I think it looks the business. And the red piping on the seats really ties things together. Of course, the other factor this big cat has going for it is mileage — or lack thereof. At this point, there are only about 6,000 miles on the clock, and the overall condition seems to reflect that low number.
According to listing, this is only a two-owner car which and spent the vast majority of its life being babied. The relatively minor imperfections are apparently due to the car spending a few seasons under a cover outdoors. But from the look of the pics, the interior has survived relatively unscathed. Sure, there’s some cracking of the wood on the dash, but look at the condition of the seats! Even the piping on the bolstering — a key wear area on any vehicle — looks to be in fine shape. That said, I will say listing a car on BaT and not fixing a drooping headliner seems like a rookie move.
After the listing went live, the bidding quickly climbed to just over $7,000, and at this point, it seems to have stalled. But there are still three days left to run, and from reading the comments, the XJS has a considerable fan base on the site. So I’m guessing we’ll see the price head north as the clock winds down, though since there’s no reserve, someone might get a great deal. My big concern here would be the fact that the V12 might not have gotten enough exercise, and could be waiting to spring leaks on the first long drive. Anyone else here think that’s a concern? Hit me up and let me know!
Photos: Bring a Trailer