Lot 314: 1974 Jensen Interceptor Convertible

More than any of its previous models, the Interceptor of the Sixties firmly established Jensen as a producer of stylish, high performance and hand-built cars. The Austin six cylinder-powered 541 range had been updated in 1962 with the restyled CV8, with 5.9 litre Chrysler V8 power to meet increasing performance demands, but its styling was an acquired taste. The initial prototype Interceptor followed in 1965, a two seater convertible with alloy coachwork, a third transverse rear seat and either 4.5 or 6.3 litre Chrysler engine. Although well received, Jensen realised the market was really for closed cars and Italian styling house Vignale was duly commissioned to pen the design; the result was an attractive closed coupe with four seats and a distinctive wrap-around rear hatch with an unusually large glass area. Launched at the 1966 London Motor Show, the stylish Interceptor proved a star attraction. Beneath its now steel coachwork the substantial parallel tube chassis featured independent wishbone/coil spring front suspension, a live, leaf-sprung rear axle located by Panhard rod and disc brakes all-round. Power came from a 6,276cc Chrysler V8, producing 325bhp at 4,600rpm and an impressive 425lb/ft at 2,800rpm, mated to a three-speed Chrysler automatic transmission - sufficient for a top speed of 133mph and 0-60mph in just 7.4 seconds Inside, Connolly leather and Wilton carpets ensured luxury while the dashboard was comprehensively equipped. In October 1968, shortly after power steering became standard, the Interceptor was announced in Mk II form with larger fuel tank, reclining seats, restyled fascia and optional air conditioning. The Mk III appeared in October 1971, boasting a 284bhp 7,212cc engine, ventilated disc brakes, alloy wheels and restyled interior; performance dropped a little to 130mph and 7.7 seconds respectively. For 1974, launched at that year's Geneva Motor Show, there was the stylish Convertible complete with conventional boot and power-operated hood. It was joined in 1975 by the Coupe sharing similar coachwork but with a fixed hard top. One of only 267 Convertibles produced, this rare Jensen has undergone a complete restoration of both the body and all mechanical components. Most attractively finished in metallic red with complementary beige leather interior, this fine hand-crafted British grand tourer is said to drive superbly.Dieses Jensen Convertible aus dem Jahr 1974 befindet sich in restauriertem und fahrfertigem Zustand. In dunkelrot-metallik und versehen mit dem 7.2 l Chrysler V 8 Motor ist dieses elegante britische Cabriolet sicher auch kein langsamer Zeitgenosse.Ein sehr seltenes Auto welches mit deutschem KFZ-Brief hier angeboten wird.