Description
This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, The Iconic Sale at the BRDC Classic 2026 - Collectors' Cars on Saturday the 25th of July, The Wing, Silverstone Circuit, NN12 8TN. The Interceptor's distinctive touring-styled bodywork, expansive glasshouse and effortless long-distance touring ability have secured its status as one of the defining British GT cars of the period. Combining hand-built British craftsmanship, Italian styling and effortless American V8 performance, the Interceptor remains one of the most charismatic grand tourers of its era.
The Interceptor III, introduced in 1971, had a revised front grille, headlamp finishers and bumper treatment and was fitted as standard with improved seats, air conditioning and handsome 15×6½-inch GKN alloy wheels. It was divided into G-, H-, and J-series depending on the production year and the 6. 3-litre 383ci engine was superseded by the 7. 2-litre 440ci from May 1972.
Few Interceptors can offer the combination of celebrity provenance and recent investment represented by this exceptional third-generation car. First registered on 18th March 1972 to John Bonham Enterprises Ltd, this right-hand drive Interceptor III H-Series is indeed powered by the venerable 6. 3-litre 383ci Chrysler V8 engine coupled to the marque's familiar TorqueFlite automatic transmission. Whilst the car's association with John Bonham is well documented, its more recent history is equally impressive. When acquired by the current owner, the Jensen was effectively in barn find condition and in need of a comprehensive rebuild so an extensive three year restoration and improvement programme was subsequently undertaken between 2020 and 2023, with invoices totalling in excess of £83, 000. The objective was not simply to return the car to the road, but to elevate it to the exceptionally high standard in which it is appears today.
As a result, the car now presents superbly throughout in gleaming Reef Blue (its original colour) with a very impressive interior retrimmed in soft crimson leather. It displays the quality, attention to detail and investment that would be extremely difficult to replicate at anything approaching the guide price. Accompanying the car is a substantial history file containing a considerable number of invoices documenting the restoration works, including expenditure with respected Jensen marque specialists and suppliers such as Martin Robey, Prestige Panels and Riverbourne Classics. Anyone contemplating the restoration of a comparable Interceptor will appreciate the substantial costs associated with bodywork, paint, trim, mechanical refurbishment and specialist labour, making this example an opportunity to bypass years of work and considerable expense.
The combination of celebrity provenance, significant recent expenditure and the enduring appeal of the Interceptor's V8-powered grand touring character places this car firmly amongst the most desirable examples currently available. Equally at home on long-distance continental tours, prestigious classic car events or within a private collection, it offers the sort of versatility that has made the best Interceptors increasingly sought after in recent years.
Today, this beautifully presented Interceptor III represents a compelling opportunity to acquire a motor car with genuine rock-and-roll history, benefiting from over £83, 000 of recent investment and offered at a level that represents outstanding value when viewed against both its provenance and the cost of recreating its condition. A rare chance to enjoy one of Britain's most charismatic GT cars without compromise.
