1972 Jensen Interceptor Mk III
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* Vendor supplied photos
Highlights
- One of only 332 Mk 3's made with the “small” 6.3-litre V8
- Only 100 left, according to Jensen Owner’s Club (JOC)
- Significant restoration
- Bare metal respray in Jensen Nevis Blue
- Shown at Hampton Court Concours d’Elegance 2021
- Massive history and documentation file
The Appeal
Hailing from West Bromwich and first introduced in 1971, the Mk3 Interceptor took the already popular and beloved Interceptor recipe and spiced it up with a refreshed interior and revised exterior styling. To this day it remains a collectible, appreciating and much vaunted classic.
This example is presented in beautiful condition, having been comprehensively and meticulously restored and displayed all over the UK at events, on TV and in periodicals.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered on 14th February 1972
- Historic vehicle (MOT and tax exempt)
- Vendor will MOT the vehicle prior to sale
- Originally finished in Brasillia Brown over Tan
- Purchased by the current owner in 2010 as a restoration project
- Restoration completed in September 2015
- Completed the 2015 JOC Tour of Cornwall – 400 miles with no reported issues
- Used all year round and taken to events around the UK
- Prize-winner at various SW Classic events
- Featured in various classic car magazines from 2015-2022
- Featured in a Discovery+ TV show in 2022
- Invited to display at the Hampton Court Concours d’Elegance in 2021
- Just under 14,000 miles covered in current ownership
- Matching numbers vehicle
- Original handbooks
- Period brochures
- Original factory build sheets
- JOC magazines
- Jensen Workshop Manual and Parts Catalogue
- Various Jensen history books
- Folder of receipts and invoices from 1972-2022
- Photographic record of the restoration
The Interior
- Interior fully retrimmed in Aston/Jaguar ‘Sand’ leather
- Upgrade to remote central locking
- Retro-styled modern stereo with Bluetooth, Aux and 4x new speakers
- Upgrade to LED interior lights
- Upgrade to modern specification interior fan
- Full new carpets and over-mats
- Moto-Lita steering wheel
- Powered windows and mirrors
- Air-conditioning
As part of the restoration process, the vendor had the full interior removed and retrimmed in ‘Sand’ leather. It’s a gorgeous tone that matches the blue paintwork very nicely. When the car was being refinished, the owner decided to tastefully update and modernise some areas of the cabin to provide a little extra practicality. So upgrades have been made to the stereo system, lighting and interior fan – all worthy changes that make the car easier to live with, without detracting from its character.
The upholstery itself is wonderfully finished and in fine condition, we especially like the ribbed headlining, which really sets the interior off. While the owner uses the car regularly, and therefore a few minor blemishes may be found on the switchgear and interior trim, the cabin presents in fantastic condition. All of the instrumentation and brightwork looks excellent and the owner assures us that every single item in the cabin functions precisely as it should. The upper section of the dash is clad in black vinyl and is free from cracks and warping, while the centre console and transmission tunnel features some gorgeous wood veneer that is likewise in a near-immaculate state.
When the interior was refinished, new royal blue carpets and over-mats were fitted, complete with colour-matched cream edging. Detailing like this, the lovely stainless steel gear-shifter and the engraved stainless sill-guards make for a truly special and luxurious passenger compartment.
At the rear the boot area is in very good condition, featuring an original tool kit in its leather roll, and a period first aid kit.
The Exterior
- Lovely Jensen Nevis Blue paintwork
- Comprehensive bodywork restoration
- Refurbished alloy wheels
Widely regarded as one of the prettiest cars to have been built in the UK, the Interceptor really is a stunning shape. With that long bonnet, handsome GT proportions and incredible curved rear glass, it’s unmistakable and can still stop traffic.
Having decided to restore the car as well as possible in 2010, the owner undertook a significant amount of bodywork. After the car was stripped and examined, new front wings, rear arches, front and rear valances, door skins and door frames were all sourced and fitted (panels are still available from the original mouldings). A bare metal respray was then undertaken, transforming the car with its shimmering coat of Nevis Blue paint as you see here. At the same time, new rubbers and seals were fitted.
In 2014, the owner had the original GKN alloy wheels refurbished, and their two-tone finish really sets the bodywork off well. They’re shod in Pirelli tyres. Then, in 2017, the over-riders, door caps and door trim pieces were all rechromed to enhance the finish of the car. All the rest of the external trim, brightwork, lights, glass and badging is in very fine condition, the car being used regularly but cared for and looked after in the most fastidious way.
The result, as you can see, is a simply beautiful car. With straight and true panels, excellent paintwork and a high level of finish, this must be one of the most attractive classics on the road today.
The Mechanics
- Rare 6,276cc V8 model
- 3-speed automatic transmission
- Full top-end engine rebuild
- Gearbox rebuild
- Full suspension rebuild
- Numerous mechanical and electrical upgrades
Featuring the highly desirable and rare 6.3-litre V8, rated at a very healthy 330bhp and 425lb-ft, this Interceptor is really quite the find. Mated to automatic transmission, it offers enormous amounts of power and effortless cruising ability, making the vehicle a truly world-class grand tourer.
As comprehensive as the restoration of the car’s interior and exterior has been, the mechanical overhaul has, perhaps, been even more in-depth. Extensive work has been undertaken by the current owner, including:
- Upgraded Bosch cooling fans
- Upgraded electronic ignition
- Battery isolator switch
- New stainless steel headers and down-pipes
- Larger gearbox oil cooler
- Suspension rebuild including new front springs, adjustable front dampers, rear coilovers and new polybushes
- Upgraded Edelbrock cam and carburettor
- New inlet manifold
- New exhaust system
- New brake callipers and pads with vented discs
- Upgraded Mitsubishi alternator
- New starter motor
- New head gasket
In short, almost every aspect of the car’s drivetrain has been renewed, refurbished or upgraded during the current owner’s stewardship.
Summary
People often talk about “restoring” a vehicle, but this incredible Jensen has been taken one step further. The owner has examined every aspect of this Interceptor and refined and enhanced it significantly.
Apparently, it was a childhood dream to restore an Interceptor, and it really shows in the love, attention and care that has gone into this build. From the choice of that eye-catching Nevis Blue paintwork and Sand leather upholstery, to the wise upgrades that truly enhance the driving experience without altering the car’s character, every inch of this vehicle is carefully considered, beautifully presented and truly, utterly magnificent.
If you’ve always wanted an Interceptor (and let’s face it, who of us hasn’t?) this may well be the best one you’ll ever see…
See a video of the car here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRoLBauEbGo&t=22s
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1972
- Make Jensen
- Model Interceptor Mk III
- Colour Blue
- Odometer 98,705 Miles
- Engine size 6277
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Location Devon
- Country United Kingdom
20
bids
- 89•••• £55,500 28/07/22
- Pa•••• £55,000 28/07/22
- Pa•••• £54,500 28/07/22
- 89•••• £54,000 28/07/22
- 89•••• £53,500 28/07/22
- Pa•••• £53,000 28/07/22
- 89•••• £52,500 28/07/22
- Pa•••• £52,000 28/07/22
- 89•••• £51,500 28/07/22
- Pa•••• £51,000 28/07/22
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