Jensen Interceptor Series IV Convertible, 1975

Chassis No.: 231/1328

Engine No.: 4C13129

Location: London, United Kingdom

£61,600 GBP | Sold

330 hp, 440 cu. in. OHV V-8 engine with four-barrel carburettor, three-speed automatic transmission, independent front suspension by coil springs and wishbones and live rear axle with semi-elliptic rear springs and Panhard rods, and four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes. Wheelbase: 105 in.

• One of only 267 convertibles built with LHD for the U.S. market

• Purchased from marque experts Cropredy Bridge Cars and fully restored from 2011–2012

• Engine, transmission, suspension, and air conditioning totally rebuilt

• New leather interior and new canvas convertible top installed

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The Jensen Interceptor was greeted with great acclaim when it débuted at the 1966 London Motor Show, as an indication that British constructors finally comprehended European chic. The smooth Vignale steel body was a huge improvement over the preceding CV8 model’s fibreglass shell, and with its American motor, the car inherited the mantle of the Facel Vega of a decade earlier.

Built as a Grand Routier, with a reliable Chrysler 383 CID V-8, the Interceptor was able to whisk a lucky owner and guest down to Nice for the weekend at up to 140 mph. There were a handful of four-speeds early on, but the automatic transmissions were preferred. Power rack-and-pinion steering contributed to ease of both parking and high-speed driving. By 1972, the engine size was up to 440 cubic inches, but the luxury levels remained the same. The Interceptors were fitted with handsome hide interiors, air conditioning, power windows and seats, and a handsome wood dash. In 1974, Jensen introduced its first convertible in more than 20 years, but only 267 were built, making them both desirable and collectible.

Constructed in January 1975 and built as a U.S. export model, the car on offer was acquired from Jensen specialists Cropredy Bridge Cars in July 2011 and a ground-up restoration commenced. After thorough body and chassis prep, the car received a bare-metal repaint in gunmetal grey metallic. A new burgundy leather interior and black canvas top were also installed. The engine was rebuilt to run on unleaded fuel with new valves, pistons, and a reground crankshaft. The transmission and suspension were also rebuilt, and the air-conditioning was re-commissioned. This extensive restoration cost in excess of £60,000, and the result is spectacular.

This concours example has covered nominal miles since the restoration was completed, and it is arguably one of the best Jensen Interceptor convertibles recently offered.

https://rmsothebys.com/auctions/lf12/lots/r177-1975-jensen-interceptor-series-iv-convertible/