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. First registered on 7th August 1970, this desirable second-generation example embodies all the qualities that have made the Interceptor one of Britain's most admired grand touring cars. Styled by Carrozzeria Touring of Milan and hand-built at Jensen's West Bromwich factory, the Interceptor successfully blended European sophistication with dependable American V8 power, creating a uniquely capable and charismatic motor car. Today, these imposing GT cars continue to enjoy strong enthusiast support and remain equally suited to continental touring, classic car events and collection ownership.
The Interceptor II is widely regarded by many enthusiasts as one of the most attractive iterations of the model, retaining the purity of the original design whilst benefiting from a number of refinements over earlier examples. It made its debut in London at the October 1969 Earls Court Motor Show and had a model life of two years, being superseded in August 1971 by the Interceptor III. The last improvements on the Series Is, carried over to the Interceptor II, included the ball-joint suspension and radial tyres, the Girling brakes, the taller axle ratio (2. 88 became the norm), the power steering (Pow-a-Rak as on the Jaguar XJ6) and the higher output alternator. Gone were the Armstrong Select-a-ride dampers — in came air-conditioning as an option, a crash-padded dashboard to suit the North American market (with a nice set of rocker switches replacing the I's central toggle panel) and some greatly improved seats which many Jensen owners still find the most comfortable of all the variations fitted to Interceptors.
Joining our vendor's prominent private collection in September 2020, the car has clearly been enjoyed and maintained during his stewardship. Seeking to enhance its presentation, he commissioned a professional repaint in its current striking shade of Tangerine, with the works costing in excess of £12, 000. The result is a car that presents well and attracts attention wherever it goes, perfectly complementing the dramatic styling for which the Interceptor has become renowned.
Accompanying the car is a history file documenting its ownership and maintenance history, including invoices from respected Jensen marque specialists Martin Robey and Riverbourne Classics in recent years. There are also a couple of invoices from Castec Motor Services for a new starter motor, battery, and ignition system overhaul totalling just over £3, 000. These provide further evidence of the care and investment the car has received during its lifetime. We strongly encourage all interested parties to inspect the vehicle and accompanying documentation in person in order to fully appreciate both its condition and the extent of the supporting history.
With values of restored Interceptors continuing to reflect the significant costs associated with specialist bodywork, paint and mechanical refurbishment, this Series II represents an attractive opportunity to acquire a well-presented, UK-supplied example from long-term collector ownership. Offered at a realistic guide price, it represents particularly good value when compared with both restoration costs and the expense of sourcing and improving a similar car today.
Combining timeless styling, effortless V8 performance and genuine usability, this handsome Jensen Interceptor II offers a compelling route into ownership of one of Britain's most charismatic classic grand tourers.
