Lot 173 - 1972 Jensen Interceptor Mk. III

• Low mileage example with plenty of provenance providing paperwork
• 7.2 litre V8 muscle car

The Jensen Interceptor was launched in 1966, utilising an all steel bodyshell, breaking away from the company's traditional method of construction that used GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic). Designed by Carrozzeria Touring, the early cars were built by Vignale before production eventually was carried out at the Jensen works in West Bromwich. 1971 saw the introduction of the Mk. III, the engine size was increased to 7212cc and, it was at this time, the most powerful engine Jensen had produced.

The imposing presence, power and distinctive shape that included the wrap around glass rear hatch drew the rich and famous to the marque attracting the attention of esteemed owners such as HRH Princess Anne, Sir Cliff Richard, actors John Thaw CBE and Tony Curtis, ex-heavyweight boxing champion, Sir Henry Cooper OBE KSG. Oh, and Eric Morecambe OBE once told Parky that his Jensen Interceptor ‘brought him sunshine’. It has often been said – and many would rightly argue – that 1966-1976 Jensen Interceptors were, and remain, a realistic alternative to the Aston Martin V8 of the same period. Dubbed ‘a gentleman’s express’ by the media at the time of its launch in October 1971, the now-matured Mk. III elevated the Jensen Interceptor to even greater heights.

This example was built in 1972 and one of the most fascinating attributes of this car is the comprehensive and fully traceable provenance, in the form of a large history file containing receipts, invoices and photographs documenting its life. Originally supplied to Jersey in 1970, this car was brought back to the UK, restored, and registered by 'Pure Class' Jensen specialists in 1990. The car has subsequently been in the hands of only three other enthusiast keepers. During the 90s, this car won multiple concourse awards from the Jensen owners club and featured as an NEC show car. Although this is now an older restoration, the car has been sympathetically and consistently maintained and improved, including a recent recommissioning and expenditure in the last couple years by the last owner to the tune of approximately £20, 000.

The result of this is not only a car that presents in a lovely condition in ‘Reef Blue’ , but one that we are also informed mechanically very sound indeed. The recent documented work includes but is not limited to, repairs and maintenance to suspension, steering and electricals, a new air con system, new 17” alloy wheels and modern Avon tyres, interior trimming and much more. We are informed the car starts 'on the button', the 7.2 V8 burbles deeply and produces excellent power on the road. It gives a surprising turn of speed even by modern standards! Most importantly the vendor tells us it steers and rides absolutely beautifully, making driving this car as easy and relaxing as you could wish for from a 52 year old car! The interior is in a lovely clean and complete condition, with no major damage. The front seats in particular appear to have been recently re-trimmed. The brightwork is very presentable and in no need of attention. To sum up, this car represents an exciting opportunity to own and immediately enjoy a very cool and iconic piece of British motoring heritage and will be sure to earn much credibility and admiration at this year’s car shows.

The Jensen Interceptor has become a ‘classic hero-car’ in the years since its launch. Its svelte and sophisticated looks mated to the huge and muscular V8 powerplant has always been an intoxicating combination. Fifty years on, the appeal of this striking Jensen Interceptor III Fastback #128-4939 remains as strong as the day it was built. With just two owners since its five-year restoration in the early 90s and a mere 26,200 original miles on the clock since new, it has lived a somewhat charmed life but now eagerly awaits its third chapter.