1973 Jensen Interceptor

Model History:

The Jensen Interceptor III was the final version of the Interceptor model, which was introduced in 1966. It was based on the chassis of the Jensen FF, a high-performance, four-wheel drive sports car that was also produced by Jensen Motors. The Interceptor was designed as a grand tourer, a type of car that is designed for long-distance travel and comfortable, high-speed cruising. It was powered by a 7.2-liter Chrysler V8 engine, which produced around 325 horsepower and could propel the car to a top speed of around 140 mph. The Interceptor was also equipped with a three-speed automatic transmission, power-assisted disc brakes, and independent suspension.

The Interceptor was known for its distinctive, angular design, which was created by Carrozzeria Touring of Milan, Italy. It featured a long hood and a short rear deck, with a spacious, comfortable interior that was trimmed with leather seats and wood veneer. The car was also equipped with a number of luxury features, such as air conditioning, power windows, and a stereo system.

Despite its impressive performance and luxurious features, the Jensen Interceptor III was not a particularly successful car. It was quite expensive and only around 6,000 units were produced, making it a relatively rare car. Additionally, the company faced financial difficulties in the 1970s and was forced to declare bankruptcy in 1976, bringing an end to production of the Interceptor and all other Jensen models.

Exterior Condition:

The Car comes in this fantastically 1970s shade of green and is in very good condition for its age. The car comes with a few defects to the paintwork such as on the front panel which could be very easily sorted out with a machine polisher.

Interior Condition:

The comfortable leather interior has great quality to it for a 1970s British-made car. The comfortable leather seats are as welcoming and comfortable as armchairs as you slide into them and the overall interior quality is something akin to a much later period car.

Engine:

The Corvette-derived high deck big block 7.2 litre V8 engine is a thunderous and lazy American V8 that perfectly suits the character of the car being a lazy GT. Producing around 330 bhp and most of it torque low down in the rev range the engine is more than capable of propelling the car down the road with ease at great speed when poked.

Chassis:

The chassis for the interceptor was derived from the Jensen FF, with similar characteristics. Using the reliable tried and tested body on the ladder chassis the car is very sturdy and the chassis is in great condition as can be seen by the underside views photos of the car.

Transmission:

The automatic transmission suits the car's relaxed character and works well with the V8 giving you more time to relax and enjoy the road and views ahead.

Drivetrain:

The front-engined V8 send its power to the rear wheels via a 3-speed automatic gearbox and a limited-slip differential.

Steering:

The light and assisted steering is communicative and has a lovely feel to it, making it very easy to steer the car through corners and place the car on the road.

Brakes:

The brakes are discs front and rear, quite rare for a car of this vintage and work really well to stop the car, more than a match for the 1,810 kg.

Maintenance History Summary:

Current ownership since 2015 (13)

Prior ownership since 2014 (12)

Prior ownership since 2006 (11)

Prior ownership 2005 (10)

Prior ownership 2003 (9)

Prior ownership 1992 (8)

Prior to this unknown

Known history shows maintenance by Jensen specialists Cropredy Bridge in Oxfordshire who have also sold it to the last couple of keepers including the current owner who unfortunately passed away as such we have been asked to find a home for this car along with the rest of his collection of exquisite classic cars.

The invoice shows the current owner purchased the car in August 2015 for £45,000 and has since had a huge amount of work done to bring the car up to its current near Concours condition.

All invoices and correspondences are on file to verify the works and give you peace of mind that this car has been cared for and improved regardless of cost.

Invoices on file show the interior was restored and re-upholstered in September 2011 by Rejen Classics.

Most of the exterior and engine rebuild works have been carried out since 2015 when the current owner purchased the car and had work done as part of the purchase by Cropredy Bridge. Documentation shows that the current owner has spent in excess of £25,000 since acquiring the car to bring it up to its current standard.