Lot 04: Jensen HEALEY

Following the end of 'Big Healey' production at Abingdon in 1967 and the notification of British Leyland Motor Corporation's decision to 'drop' the Austin-Healey Sprite (thereby avoiding paying Donald Healey royalties), Healey decided to produce a new sports car designed around Vauxhall components. In the early stages of the project, the American businessman, Kjell Qvale, approached Donald Healey and, following Qvale's obtaining control of Jensen Cars, the new car was to be produced as the Jensen Healey. By the time production commenced in 1972, the Jensen Healey was powered by the new Lotus 2-litre 16-valve twin-cam engine. Offering 120mph performance and a respectable 25mpg, the Jensen Healey was popular and sold well, with production continuing to 1976. Understood to have been registered originally in Long Beach, California, during 1976, this is a Mk II version dating from 1975. We understand that the recorded mileage of 45,840 is believed to be correct as the car has seen little use whilst in the current ownership of fourteen years. Conversion to right-hand-drive was undertaken by a Jensen specialist during 1991 and during 2001 over �1900 was spent on a top-end engine overhaul. All major mechanical components are said to be in good working order and the car, which is finished in red with tan interior trim, has both hard and soft tops, as well as a tonneau cover and full outdoor cover. All previous MOT certificates since 1991 are included, along with the original service book and owner's handbook, Jensen Healey workshop manual and much additional paperwork including the original sale invoice. The car is being offered for sale due to the vendor's lack of spare time and the documentation also includes a current MOT certificate valid until 31st October 2008 and a V5 document.