Beschreibung
Cotswold Classic Car Restorations Ltd are delighted to have been instructed to act as sales agents on behalf of the current owner to find a new custodian for this stunning example of British craftmanship.
In 1934 two brothers; Richard and Alan Jensen set-up Jensen Motors Limited in West Bromwich and began creating grand handmade cars. They became know as great innovators in glass fibre construction, vehicle safety and luxury.
Kevin Beattie was employed as deputy chief engineer at Jensen Motors on 1st January 1960 with his first project being the modernisation of the fast but raw Jensen CV-8 model. Beattie was less than happy with Jensen's in-house designer Eric Neales drawings so he went to Italy to see what the fashionable Italian styling houses could offer. Italian coachbuilders Carrozzeria Touring of Milan designed the now iconic Interceptor shape on the CV-8 chassis with some subtle tweaks from Vignales draughtsman. The majority shareholders preferred the Italian styled car; prompting Eric Neale and the Jensen brothers who were close to retirement to leave the company. The launch of the MK1 Jensen Interceptor at the 1966 British Motor Show made a huge impact which would resonate for years to come.
Norwegian car importer Kjell Qvale became Jensens major shareholder. Qvale was the biggest importer of European sports cars to the U. S and this was largely the reason behind the powerful 6. 3 litre engine being replaced with the de-tuned Chrysler 7. 2 litre engine to comply with American emission regulations. The 7. 2 litre engine was fitted from July 1972 onwards; they were identified with the letter 'J' on the Jenson's rear panel.
Hand built and very expensive, ownership was always limited to the privileged few with only 6, 408 Interceptors being sold before production came to an end in 1976 after Jensen Motors fell on hard times during the world-wide recession and oil crisis prompting the factory to close.
The average weekly wage in 1971 was £18. 79 with a pint of beer being just 32 pence and the average house price around £5632 therefore the Interceptor was out of reach for most as prices started at £3742.
With a top speed of 133mph and being able to sprint from 0 to 60 in around 7. 3 seconds; the Interceptor was a popular choice of many celebrities including Sir Cliff Richard, Lulu and Eric Morecambe.
The nearest competitor was the Aston Martin DB6 with a similar showroom price to the Jensen in the late 60's. In terms of comfort and silence the Interceptor was considered to be more relaxing to drive than the DB6 as well as being faster with far superior handling.
The Interceptor appealed to buyers who wanted something more exclusive than a Rolls Royce but more robust than an E-Type.
The Jensen featured on many television series and films including the original 1974 'Gone in 60 seconds' film which featured a 1973 Jensen Interceptor code named 'Betty'.
The six separate Connolly leather hides were used in each Interceptor with Wilton carpets to finish adding to the exceptionally comfortable and luxurious interior.
The excellently laid out facia has six Smiths instruments and a Kienzle clock. The various gauges are raised as close to eye level as possible and angled in the moulding towards the driver.
Electric windows and the electronically operated fuel-filler lid were just some of the features that the Jensen boasted which were ahead of its time.
Today the Jenson is still regarded as the epitome of the high speed executive express with superb weight distribution and performance. The Interceptor is a fast appreciating classic which has all the character of the similar Aston Martin but at a much more attainable price.
Registered on the 18th November 1971 this Jenson benefits from having the much sought after early 6. 3litre engine. The Chrysler 727 Torqueflite 3 speed automatic transmission is smooth and quiet.
With torque on tap and impressive brakes; pressing the accelerator is an electrifying experience.
A large and comprehensive history file details the meticulous maintenance over the years including all of the valuable upgrades. These subtle upgrades include but are not limited to a Fosseway brake upgrade to 'Big brake' 325mm front discs and calipers, rear discs and calipers upgrade, a 600cfm carburetor and a full Fenair Interceptor upgrade including Sandon compressor for the air conditioning. There are two sets of keys with Toad alarm fobs.
Please note that Cotswold Classic Car Restorations Ltd are acting as sales agents on behalf of the current owner. Transport and shipping can be arranged; with all paperwork necessary handled on behalf of the purchaser.
Further photos can be seen on our website at - details above
For more video footage of the Jensen being enjoyed please look at the YouTube Classic Car Trumps channel - - details above
The owner is motivated to sell and therefore is open to sensible offers.
the details below
- details above
