Jensen Interceptor Classic Cars for Sale

The Jensen Interceptor was built between 1950 and 1957 then revived, redesigned and built once more between 1966 and 1976. Not wanting to detract from the models identifying name, Jensen simply chose Mark 1 – 3 as the variant signature.

First Generation Jensen Interceptor

The original Interceptor was the built on Austin components with a mix of steel and aluminium on a wooden frame. Three body styles were made, these being, a saloon, a convertible and a sedanca. All three variants were designed with 2 doors and 4 seats. In total, less than 90 of these vehicles were produced in its 7 year life.

Mark 1

1966 saw the Interceptor’s rebirth. The Mark 1 Jensen Interceptor was Italian by design and in fact early models had their body shells fabricated, finished and trimmed in Milan with final assembly undertaken in the UK at West Bromwich. The Interceptor underwent several modifications during its early years including a complete overhaul of the suspension and numerous adjustments to rectify reliability and performance problems. Much of this was thanks to the arrival of American Carl Duerr who, as well as sorting out practical problems, also helped install a newfound sense of pride into the Jensen workforce.

Mark 2

In October 1969 the Mark 2 Jensen Interceptor was launched at the London Earls Court Motor Show and put an end to the cars Italian era. Cosmetic changes were seen with regards to the headlamps and bumpers but most notable was the redesign of the car’s interior which now had a padded dashboard, a development that was necessary to satisfy American vehicle regulations. In addition, the Interceptor now had considerably more comfortable seats which are still held in high regard by owners even today. Although the production run of the of the Mark 2 lasted only 2 years it was this variation that showcased the Jensen Interceptor worldwide and helped promote its image as an international car.

Mark 3

The final incarnation of the Jensen Interceptor was shown at the Earls Court Motor Show in 1971 under the new company ownership of Kjell Qvale. Many of the optional extras that had been available with the Mark 2 were now provided as standard on the Mark 3. These included air conditioning and the Town & Country air horn and the new options included a vast selection of trims and colour finishes. At this point in the Interceptor’s history it was most definitely à la mode and appeared in several films and TV series and was owned and enjoyed by many of the rich and famous.

The mid seventies were a difficult time for the car industry with a world-wide recession and concern over the middle-east oil prices: not ideal for the gas guzzling Interceptor. Jensen was placed into receivership in 1975 and production finally ended of the iconic Jensen Interceptor in 1976.