1973 Jensen Interceptor Mark III
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Highlights
- Restored and customised by vendor
- Thoroughly reworked mechanicals
- Inspired by Fast & Furious 6 movie car
- Undergone extensive fabrication work
- Largely original interior
The Appeal
Handbuilt in Britain with Italian styling and an American powertrain, the Jensen Interceptor was something of an international effort. The result was one of the most stylish and capable GTs of the twentieth century, with its rakish lines and 7.2-litre Chrysler V8 engine.
This 1973 example has been comprehensively restored by the current owner, who has also added some custom features inspired by the Jensen featured in the film Fast & Furious 6.
The History and Paperwork
- Acquired by vendor in 2018
- Subject to extensive restoration
- Three recorded owners from new
- Large history file
- To be supplied with a fresh MOT
The Interior
- Mostly original
- New carpets
- New window door and window rubbers
- Electric window motors replaced
When the vendor acquired this car in 2018, the interior was largely intact and so, to preserve its originality, the vendor has left much of it alone.
The carpets have been replaced, as have the perishable rubber components and the window mechanisms. Beyond that, the interior of this Jensen is in lovely, original condition. The cream leather seats and headlining wear an even level of light patination.
The vendor informs us that, while the original air conditioning system and 8-track stereo remain in place, neither are currently functional.
Overall, this Interceptor’s cabin has had just the right level of sympathetic restoration, replacing only what was necessary and maintaining the car’s authenticity.
The Exterior
- Bare metal respray in dark metallic blue
- New floor plans and inner wheel arches
- Front valance cut and lowered
- Fast & Furious 6 inspired air vents and racing stripe
While the interior required little restorative work, the exterior of this Jensen has been thoroughly restored. Eight sections of the floorpan have been replaced, as have the inner wings. Deviating slightly from standard, the front valance has been cut and lowered, emulating the Interceptor Model R built by Jensen International UK. In a nod to the aforementioned Fast & Furious 6 screen car, this Interceptor now wears painted racing stripes from front to rear and has air vents set into the bonnet.
After this bodywork had been carried out, the car was treated to a full metal respray in dark metallic blue. As a result, this Jensen is very smart and free from any corrosion.
The vendor informs us that the brightwork is in good condition, with the exception of the original bumpers that have been removed. Aftermarket front indicators are now nestled in the recesses for the front bumper and the originals, along with the corroded original bumpers, are supplied with the car. Additionally, Bosch spot lamps have been set into the front valance, hidden behind a mesh. The rear number plate is now lit with small LEDs. It should be noted that the vendor is supplying the original bumpers and indicator clusters with the vehicle, in case the new owner wishes to return them to stock.
The iconic “fishbowl” glass tailgate is in good order, having had the supporting springs replaced and balanced during the restoration process. The engine bay too was stripped and sealed, and the inside of the doors have been treated with Waxoyl.
One eccentricity the vendor does report, is that the fuel cap can sometimes be troublesome to use. We are sure this will give the next owner something to muse over.
One eccentricity the vendor does report, is that the fuel cap can sometimes be troublesome to use. We are sure this will give the next owner something to muse over.
The original and very lightweight 15” Jensen alloys still sit under the car and are in good overall condition. They are shod with Pirelli 6000 tyres which the vendor reports still display plenty of tread.
The Mechanics
- Original, refurbished Jensen parts used where possible
- Engine and gearbox rebuilt and uprated
- New suspension, brakes and wheel bearings
Mechanically, no stone has been left unturned during the restoration of this Interceptor.
The original 7.2-litre V8 was rebuilt with the addition of an Edelbrock cam, alloy heads, alloy inlet header, 4-barrel carburettors, new pistons, rods, steel crank and harmonic balancing disc.
The factory TorqueFlite automatic transmission was rebuilt and rebalanced. A new vacuum servo and slave cylinder were also fitted. All four wheel bearings were replaced, as were the brake rotors and calipers.
The suspension has also been thoroughly overhauled. The corroded rear leaf springs were replaced with custom items, although the car still sits at the factory ride height. At the front, the original coil springs and shock absorbers have been swapped out for new items. Polybushes are now fitted throughout. The Interceptor has also received a new battery, wrapped headers and a new Jensen exhaust system.
As you would expect, the car now drives, rides, corners and brakes very well indeed.
Summary
As challenging cars to restore, few are brave enough to attempt bringing a Jensen Interceptor back to life. Fortunately, the owner of this car recognised this example’s potential and treated it to the mechanical and cosmetic work it deserved.
What we have here then, is a healthy example of one of the greatest GTs of the twentieth century. Few surviving Interceptors will have had such care and attention lavished upon them and we therefore think this example will appeal to those who really want to use their classic as originally intended.
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 1973
- Make Jensen
- Model Interceptor Mark III
- Colour Blue
- Odometer 59,000 Miles
- Engine size 7212
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Freshford
- Location Somerset
- Country United Kingdom
44
bids
- Ti•••• £44,750 14/08/22
- ha•••• £44,500 14/08/22
- st•••• £44,000 14/08/22
- ha•••• £43,000 14/08/22
- st•••• £42,000 14/08/22
- Ti•••• £41,000 14/08/22
- st•••• £40,000 14/08/22
- Pa•••• £37,000 14/08/22
- st•••• £36,500 14/08/22
- Pa•••• £35,500 14/08/22
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