1977 Jensen Interceptor Series IV Convertible

The Jensen Interceptor was a sporting GT-class car, hand-built in the UK by Jensen Motors between 1966 and 1976. The car broke with a Jensen tradition by having a steel body shell instead of a glass-reinforced plastic one and by having the body designed by an outside firm, Carrozzeria Touring of Italy, the firm more recognisably associated with the likes of Aston Martin, Lamborghini, Maserati and Alfa Romeo.

The engine was a Chrysler V8, initially of 6276cc, with optional manual transmission, but the more common choice was the TorqueFlite automatic transmission, drive was via the rear wheels through a limited slip differential and a conventional Salisbury rear axle. The engine grew to 7212cc in late 1971 and it acquired 4-barrel carburation.

The original specification included electric windows, reclining front seats, a wood rimmed steering wheel, a radio with twin speakers, reversing lights and an electric clock. Power steering was included as standard from September 1968. The Mark II Interceptor was announced in October 1969 with revised frontal styling and ventilated disc brakes, and shortly afterwards, in 1971, came the Mark III. It had revised seats, fully cast alloy wheels plus some other improvements. Latterly, a convertible with a powered soft top was introduced in 1974, this was mainly intended for the American market but also sold in Europe. Just 267 convertibles were made, and here is one of the best!..

Built in 1976, but registered in 1977 this striking Mk.IV Jensen was delivered to its first and only owner, Mr Sydney Ford of California, USA where it remained throughout its 50,000 miles until the passing of its owner, and repatriation to the UK. Still retaining its matching V8 powerplant and offered in factory build sheet colours of Royal Blue paintwork, blue interior and blue hood - the inside of which being a mushroom colour for lightness as per factory original - the car has recently been repainted to result in a deep lustre and making the entire package irresistible.

Turning the key fires the enormous V8 engine to life at the first time of asking. Everything behaves as you would expect and according to our vendor, the engine performs faultlessly in unison with the automatic gearbox which helps to propel the car easily through country roads and modern traffic.

Offered for sale in first-rate order and for only the second time in its existence, it is presented with UK taxes paid and NOVA notified making registration in any EU country a breeze. Should you be outside the EU, please contact your respective vehicle agency to ensure you understand the implications of import and registration to where you are before you bid.