I think virtually every motoring enthusiast laments a lost opportunity where they could have bought a new classic, but circumstances contrived against them. If you feel that way about the 1985 Ford F-150 XLT Lariat, this could be your chance to right that wrong. The seller describes its condition as “like new,” and the supplied photos support that claim. It needs a new home, with the seller listing it here on eBay in Chester, New York. Bidding currently sits below the reserve at $25,050.

Ford designed and marketed the F-150 as a rugged workhorse, and many served capably in that role. However, a few escaped the cut and thrust of hard labor, and this 1985 XLT Lariat is one of the lucky ones. The original Window Sticker confirms the Red paint is a Special Order, and it undoubtedly makes a striking first impression. Its flawless state reinforces the seller’s description, with contrasting pinstripes adding a further classy touch. The panels are laser straight, and a history of climate-controlled storage and no exposure to snow or salt means it is rust-free. The panels are spotless, and the underside shots reveal nothing but the occasional dusting of surface corrosion on some mechanical components. There are lashings of exterior chrome extending from the grille to the side rails, mirrors, hood ornament, front bumper, and the practical chrome rear step bumper. All sparkle beautifully, with no visible corrosion or pitting. The original owner ordered this Pickup with tinted glass and a sliding back window, which are in a pristine state. It rolls on factory steel wheels with chrome trim rings and centers. Unsurprisingly, these are as immaculate as the rest of the exterior.

While ordering a new ’85 F-150 with a bare-bones interior was possible, this Pickup’s original owner ticked the box beside the XLT Lariat option on the Order Form. That brought a few luxury touches like faux burl walnut trim, but they opened their wallet further to add air conditioning, power windows, power locks, sports gauges, cruise control, a tilt wheel, a digital clock, and an AM/FM radio/cassette player. The XLT retains these features with no aftermarket additions. The overall condition is in keeping with the rest of the vehicle, meaning there is no evidence of wear or physical damage to the upholstery, carpet, dash, or plastic components. I hesitate to call it perfect, but it doesn’t miss the mark by much!

Lifting the F-150’s hood reveals the “HO” version of the 5.8-liter V8 that brings 210hp and 305 ft/lbs of torque to the table. The power feeds to the road via a three-speed automatic transmission, a dual-range transfer case, and locking hubs. With the convenience of power steering and power brakes, this F-150 should be an accomplished performer in all circumstances. I doubt it has ever seen a muddy track or sand, but it should be at home if the buyer decides to lead an adventurous life. The seller claims it has a genuine 25,000 miles on the clock, but they don’t mention verifying evidence. However, the overall condition supports the claim, with peeling paint on the air cleaner the only obvious sign of deterioration or aging. The XLT runs and drives perfectly, and the seller supplies this YouTube video to quell any fears. It provides a walk-around, allowing us to hear the V8 in action. It starts at the first turn of the key, and there are no signs of problems or issues.

It is always a high-risk game when describing an original and unrestored thirty-eight-year-old classic as perfect because a close investigation almost invariably reveals faults or defects. The same is probably true with this 1985 Ford F-150 XLT Lariat, although the photos paint a positive picture. However, with twenty-six bids submitted in under twenty-four hours, plenty of people like what they see. Recent sales results suggest the intense activity could push the price beyond $40,000 before the hammer falls. If you missed out the first time, are you tempted to make a play for this beauty?