Description
Built by Jensen Motors between 1957 and 1960, the 541R represented the ultimate development of the original 541 before the arrival of the 541S. Only 193 examples were produced, making it one of the rarer post-war Jensens.
Designed by Eric Neale, the 541R featured a remarkably aerodynamic fibreglass body mounted on a steel chassis. Its drag coefficient of around 0. 39 was exceptional for the period and helped give the car impressive high-speed performance. The production cars used glassfibre construction at a time when most rivals were still using steel bodies.
Mechanical specification
- Engine: 3, 993cc Austin D-Series straight-six
- Power: approximately 150 bhp
- Torque: around 228 lb-ft
- Transmission: 4-speed manual with optional Laycock de Normanville overdrive
- Drive: Rear-wheel drive
For a four-seat GT in 1958, the 541R's performance figures were genuinely impressive. In fact, when tested by Autocar, the 541R became the fastest four-seat production car they had ever tested.
What made the "R" special?
The "R" stood for Rack and Pinion steering, replacing the earlier cam-and-roller arrangement and giving noticeably sharper handling. Other improvements included:
- Twin carburettors on the DS7 engine (later becoming triple carburettors)
- Higher compression ratio
- Revised cylinder head and cam timing
- Four-wheel Dunlop disc brakes
- Overdrive gearbox becoming common equipment
The four-wheel disc brake setup was particularly noteworthy, as Jensen was among the pioneers of fitting discs to production four-seaters.
Driving character
Owners often describe the 541R as more of a continental express than a sports car. It has:
- Huge torque from low revs.
- Long-legged cruising ability.
- Surprisingly light steering for its era.
- Excellent visibility thanks to the slim pillars and large glass area.
Compared with contemporary British GTs, the Jensen feels less sporting but more relaxed and effortless over long distances
In 1958 Autocourse & Sporting Motorist concluded that the 541 was the '... handsomest of British saloons - an almost ideal fast touring car, capable of carrying four people over long distances in unusual comfort at high speed'.
Built in September 1959, chassis number 3996002 was finished in Bottecelli Blue with a Blue Grey interior. While certain areas of car's trim and paint would benefit from some attention, the car is mechanically and structurally very sound.
It represents a rare opportunity to own what many consider to be the 'sweet spot' of the 541 range, and one of the most beautiful and usable late-1950s GTs.
