Lot 009: 1966 JENSEN CV8 MKIII

Introduced at the October 1962 Earls Court Motor Show, the C-V8 instantly became one of the fastest four-seaters of its generation. Penned by Eric Neale in consultation with the Jensen brothers, its dramatic glassfibre bodywork clothed an advanced tubular chassis designed by the recently recruited Kevin Beattie. Equipped with independent coil-sprung front suspension, a 'live' rear axle, four-wheel Dunlop disc brakes, a limited-slip differential and rack-and-pinion steering, the new Jensen was powered by a Chrysler-supplied 5.9litre V8 engine allied to Torqueflite automatic transmission. Boasting some 305bhp and 395lbft of torque, the Anglo-American hybrid was reputedly capable of over 132mph. Not content to sit on their laurels, the Bromwich concern evolved the C-V8 through MKII and MKIII guises (adopting an even larger 6.3litre Chrysler V8 rated at 330bhp and 425lbft in the process). Released during June 1965, the latter variant sported a redesigned front end with a lower bulkhead, deeper windscreen and new bumpers. Further enhanced via an improved ventilation system, wood veneer dashboard and split-circuit braking, it remained in production until December 1966 (total C-V8 MKIII production has been put at 181 cars). Reputedly the only Autumn Gold C-V8 ever built by the factory, 'KKH173D' is said to have had two previous keepers and to have covered 30,000 miles before entering the current ownership in 1971. Apparently used as everyday transport until 1979, the coupe was "taken off the road for restoration in 1986". As well as having its bodywork refurbished and resprayed in Autumn Gold by Ebor Motors of Littleborough, the Jensen was treated to new (front) black leather seat facings, fresh carpets and replacement boot- / head linings courtesy of the Eccles Car Hood & Cushion Company. While, its rear seats and door linings were left untouched, much of the C-V8's chromework was refreshed. The subject of regular mechanical work over the last fifteen years including "an engine overhaul, new starter motor, alternator, electronic ignition and timing-chain / sprockets etc", 'KKH173D' has also reportedly benefited from a "gearbox rebuild and new Torque converter". Sporting new brake discs / callipers, two fresh tyres and a stainless steel exhaust, this unique Jensen is offered for sale with history file (original logbook, owner's handbook, toolkit, numerous bills etc), MOT certificate valid until May 2007 and historic class (free) road tax until April 2007.