Lot 132: Jensen CV-8 MKI

In October 1962 Jensen launched the 2 door, 4 seat, fibre glass bodied CV8 saloon. The model was powered by an American Chrysler V8 engine and came with automatic transmission and all round disc brakes as standard. It was also the first British car to feature an alternator rather than a dynamo. As with previous Jensen models the interior was very well appointed, being fitted with leather seats and high quality trim. The comprehensive instrumentation was set into a wood veneer fascia. The CV8 was also said to be the fastest accellerating, British, production saloon car of its time. In January 1964 the Mk II model was introduced and apart from some minor changes to external brightwork, it had a larger version on the Chrysler V8 engine, headlamp flasher, 2 speed wipers and a reversing lamp as standard equipment. Later in the same year a manual gearbox model became available but this car was fitted with the smaller engine of the earlier car. The Mk III came along in 1965 and featured dual circuit braking and some more minor trim changes . Production of the CV8 ended in October 1966. Offered here is a rare MKI of 1963 vintage, which is described as being in totally original and very usable condition. It is finished in blue with beige leather and is said to drive very well. Those of a certain age will remember the CV8 as the car driven by the "The Baron" in that TV series but they are a rare sight on the road today.