$20,375
Jensen’s first production car, the S-type of 1936-1941, used a Ford flathead V8 and came either as a two-door convertible, three-door tourer, or four-door saloon. Roughly 50 were made, laying an early foundation for another, rather more well known Jensen GT with Detroit eight-cylinder power.
Jensen’s first production car, the S-type of 1936-1941, used a Ford flathead V8 and came either as a two-door convertible, three-door tourer, or four-door saloon. Roughly 50 were made, laying an early foundation for another, rather more well known Jensen GT with Detroit eight-cylinder power.
That car, of course, is the Mopar-motivated Interceptor of 1966-1976, not to be confused with Jensen’s first, straight-six equipped Interceptor of 1950-1957.
This auction car is a late Series III example, and one of only 267 convertibles made - even fewer than the spectacularly exotic four-wheel drive and anti lock braked Interceptor FF of 1967.
Despite the loss of the Interceptor’s signature wraparound glass hatchback and distinct roofline, these convertibles are still very attractive cars thanks to the inherent strength of Carrozzeria Touring’s original design.
This one retains the correct Jensen branded GKN alloy wheels, and its pewter gray and navy color combination is quite sophisticated. Notice the Ferrari 330-esque rear fenders, which cut a more complex and pleasing line than the relatively featureless panels fitted to more common hatchback Interceptors.
The navy blue theme continues inside, where Connolly leather hides, thick carpets, and rich wood cover virtually all surfaces. In keeping with the Interceptor’s grand touring mission, the dashboard is well equipped with no shortage of toggle switches, gauges, vents, and rotary controls, and it’s nice to see what’s likely the car’s original AM/FM radio still in place.
Check out the rear seat accommodations as well, which despite coming up somewhat short on legroom, look great set deep between the rear inner fenders and a rather massive hump over the differential.
A variety of Chrysler V8s were utilized in the Interceptor, including small and big blocks as well as several different carburetion setups. Based on model year, the V8 underneath this car’s neat JENSEN inscribed rocker covers should be a 440ci unit of 280 hp and a hefty 375 lb-ft of torque.
Drive is sent to the rear wheels via a Chrysler TorqueFlite 3-speed automatic, and brakes are by disc all around.
This car is offered without known history, but sale does include invaluable parts and workshop manuals as well as what looks like the original convertible top boot cover.
Top Gear once suggested that the Interceptor had the coolest name of any car ever made, and while that certainly may be, we think the bigger picture is just how fabulous the cars are themselves.
This one’s extraordinary colors and body style only deepen its appeal, and the year after it was made, Jensen Motors shut its doors forever. Estimated $30,000 - $50,000.
IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL BIDDERS
It should be noted that this vehicle has been on static display for a number of years and there is no history available beyond that displayed in our photography section.
We have not started or driven the car so cannot vouch for its mechanical viability or functionality. It will require recommissioning prior to road use and is sold ‘as seen’.
Please note that the title for this vehicle is in transit.
