Description
The Jensen Interceptor created quite a stir when first shown to the public at the 1966 Earls Court Motor Show. Here was a new, stunning-looking, Gran Turismo supercar, styled in Italy by Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera – bearing the Jensen name, but every inch a competitor for the likes of Aston Martin and the prestige Italian makes.
Building on the relatively short-lived Jensen CV8 dating from 1962, the Interceptor used American V8 power in the shape of the 6-litre Chrysler engine – rated at 330 bhp - mated to a Torqueflite 3-speed automatic gearbox. Where it differed majorly was in the use of its shapely all-steel body, rather than using fibreglass per the CV8.
The Interceptor was a great success for the company and was built in convertible, coupe and groundbreaking four-wheel drive Ferguson Formula options. Production ran for 10 years, over 3 model Series – the Mk. 11 appearing in 1969 and the Mk. 111 following in 1971. The external appearance of the car altered little, but the mechanicals were improved with enlarged engines, improved suspension, braking and steering. The interiors became increasingly luxurious with better seating, air conditioning etc. etc. Between 1966 and 1976, a total of a little over 7, 000 cars of all Series were built.
The rarest of these is the Mk. 1, as offered here, of which only around 1, 000 were made. This early car was first registered in the UK in July 1967 and we know no more of its history until 1993, when it was exported to Finland. Believed to be in reasonable original condition it was however treated by its new, enthusiast owner to a full professional restoration over a period of 4 years. After restoration, the car was little used and stored in a heated garage, maintaining its very good, renovated condition.
The Jensen was offered for sale by his estate following the owner’s death and purchased by a Jersey resident, who bought the car into the island, re-registering it in 2022. As might be anticipated, given relatively little use over 20 plus years, the car has needed a certain amount of mechanical servicing and re-commissioning to return it to first class driving condition, with attention given to the usual suspects – fuel, ignition and braking systems.
As part of the earlier restoration activities, the car’s engine was rebuilt with new parts. The gearbox and rear axle were disassembled and restored. New exhaust manifolds and pipes/ silencers were fitted, with brakes and steering system components renewed. Electrical equipment, such as electric windows and the radio, were renovated. Given recent service and re-commissioning work, the V8 engine runs nicely with plenty of power and torque. The auto gearbox shifts smoothly and precisely.
Originally grey, the car was fully re-finished as part of the ‘90s bodywork restoration in Jensen’s metallic burgundy colour. Before being offered for sale in 2022, minor rust damage in the front floors was attended to and any small defects in the body were attended to and re-painted. The Jensen remains in very good condition today and looks very smart.
When it left the factory, the Interceptor had black upholstery but has subsequently been re-trimmed, with the exception of the dashboard surfaces, in a light tan leather. This is in excellent condition throughout. The dashboard is complete with all the electrical devices working as they should. A period radio is fitted.
An older restoration, this remains a very sound and smart early series Jensen Interceptor.
Whilst we have no documentary record of the ‘90s restoration work, the car is accompanied by a Jensen Motors ‘Statement of Origin’ certificate together with copies of their records for the vehicle from 1967 to 1969.
The car is currently Jersey registered and we can assist with shipping and importation processes if required. We can ship worldwide.
