1973 JENSEN INTERCEPTOR MARK III Registration Number: 97 HO...

Hammer

£6,500

1973 JENSEN INTERCEPTOR MARK III

Registration Number: 97 HOT
Chassis No: 136-8749
Recorded Mileage: 40,395 

Low mileage and long term previous ownership
Believed to have had just 3 owners from new
Last road registered in 1982

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 prototype Interceptor appeared 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 entrusted the design to Vignale in Italy.

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 with 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 4251b.ft at 2,800rpm, mated to a three-speed Chrysler automatic transmission. This allowed 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 7,212cc engine, ventilated disc brakes, alloy wheels and restyled interior.

This later Mark III was manufactured on 10th July 1973, finished in a very period combination of Havana with a Beige leather interior. First supplied by Charles Follett of North London to a Mr. Norris Cooper of Hampstead, the Interceptor was in regular use with the second owner until around 1982, whereupon it was stored off the road for many years. 

The Jensen is complete and original, and is offered with handbook, Statement of Origin, details of period Warranty Claims, copy of original build sheet, an older MoT certificate from 1981 and a copy of the previous registration document showing the number “97 HOT”. Whilst we cannot categorically state this plate will be granted to the car, we note it has not yet been applied to any other vehicle and so with the correct submission to the DVLA we believe the number can be retained on this vehicle.

Interest and subsequent values of Jensen Interceptors have risen rapidly in recent years, as such we are sure this restoration project will be of much interest to enthusiasts.