1975 Jensen Interceptor Series III Convertible
1975 Jensen Interceptor Series III Convertible
Shown at the October 1966 Earls Court Motor Show alongside the technically advanced four-wheel drive FF, the Touring of Milan designed Interceptor was quite a sensation and received much praise. The fact Jensen had in the space of a year produced two completely new models was also outstanding, particularly as the two companies involved in the project were 680 miles apart. The original design penned by Touring of Milan was taken to Vignale of Turin who had the capability to produce the car in much higher numbers than Touring. Fully trimmed and painted bodyshells were delivered from Italy for assembly at West Bromwich by October 1966. Both new cars had the 330bhp Chrysler 383ci (6276cc) V8 engine and Torqueflite three speed automatic gearbox as fitted to the previous C-V8 and shared body panels from the front A-pillars back, the chassis of each car were however quite different. The original cars built by Vignale in Italy required much work inside and out to meet the quality standard required by Jensen, eventually the contract was terminated and Jensen started producing the cars themselves at West Bromwich. For the October 1969 Motor Show a Mk. II version of the Interceptor and FF were displayed. Changes to the rear lights having a larger flatter area and no chrome trim, new slimmer bumpers and flatter overriders were amongst the many improvements that were introduced, the largest being a completely new interior. With the introduction of the SP, the Interceptor gained the same interior and exterior treatment becoming the Interceptor Mk. III. The GKN alloys and brakes were also added and the culmination of so many small details gave the whole car a fresher, more modern look compared with the previous models.
This outstanding Jensen Interceptor Series III Convertible has been the subject of a no-expense-spared restoration, completed at an extraordinary cost in the region of £140,000. A matching-numbers, original right-hand-drive example, the accompanying Statement of Origin confirms that it left the factory in 1975 finished in Magenta with a magnolia/cream interior. During its meticulous restoration, the car was taken back to bare metal and refinished in an elegant metallic claret, while the interior has been completely retrimmed using eight hides to create a sumptuous cream leather cabin, enhanced by claret piping and embroidered Jensen logos to both front seats. The burr walnut dashboard is particularly striking, harmonising beautifully with the new carpets fitted throughout the cabin and boot.
Mechanically, the car has been comprehensively rebuilt. The engine has been fully overhauled and upgraded with aluminium high-flow cylinder heads, a high-flow inlet manifold, Edelbrock carburettors and a sports exhaust system, delivering performance to match its grand touring credentials. The rear axle and differential have been refurbished, retaining the original crown wheel and pinion, while the gearbox has been professionally rebuilt by a marque specialist. A new air conditioning system has also been installed for enhanced usability. Further attention has been paid to the exterior with the fitment of a new electrically operated mohair hood, commissioned at a cost of £9,000, completing the car's transformation. Further enhancements have been made since Historics sold the car to the present owner, as the restoration was not totally finished. Over the last two years, the present owner has made certain that every detail meets the highest standard in finishing the restoration which has resulted in a car that presents and performs superbly. In effect, this is a 'better than new' example—combining opulence, craftsmanship and formidable performance from its 7.2-litre engine. Opportunities to acquire such an exceptional Interceptor are rare indeed—find another, as they say. Consigned by James Good
Lot details
Year: 1975
Make: Jensen
Model: Interceptor Series III
Registration: LGP 65P
Chassis No: 1035
Engine No: 4C13294
Odometer: 13,656
* Full restoration recently carried at a cost of circa £140,000
* New mohair hood and leather interior
* Engine rebuilt
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