Introduced in 1966, the Jensen FF was the first non all-terrain production vehicle to feature both four-wheel drive and an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Prior to this, the Dunlop Maxaret mechanical ABS was utilised solely on aircraft, lorries, and racing cars. Recognising the competitive edge ABS provided to racing cars, Jensen decided it was essential to incorporate this technology into road vehicles.
Named the FF for its pioneering four-wheel drive system (FF stands for Ferguson Formula, developed at Ferguson Research Limited), the vehicle is powered by a formidable Chrysler 6.3-litre V8 engine, generating around 330bhp fed through the TorqueFlite automatic transmission. This powerful engine ensures that the car's performance matches its impressive appearance.
MMA 40H, Chassis number #119 165, is one of just 195 Series 1 cars produced (Chassis prefix 119) and was delivered to its first owner during the summer of 1969. It was to remain in that ownership for over 30 years, although it was initially registered as a company vehicle for Auto Masters Ltd, an engineering firm in Hyde. In 2000, it was sold, or likely gifted, to Mr John Marsh, the director whose company car it had been, possibly upon his retirement. He enjoyed the car for an additional four years before selling it in 2004 and a further three owners followed before arriving in the care of our vendor.
Originally supplied in white, the car now sports a stunning Royal Flag Blue exterior with a silver roof, a distinctive feature of early Jensens, but retains its original black leather interior and Walnut fascia.
The Jensen is accompanied by an extensive and meticulously organised history file, housed in a beautiful green leather-bound ring binder. The file includes invoices totalling over £40,000, along with numerous historic MOT Certificates, tax and insurance documents and copies of older V5Cs that trace the car’s ownership history. There is even an old application form for the Jensen Owners Club featuring the car’s details from Mr Marsh’s membership application. The history file is a true highlight, offering insight into the car's story and the care it has received over the years.
After long-term storage, Mr Marsh commissioned a restoration in 1991, with the work completed in 1993 and all fully documented across some 15 pages of invoices. More recently, #165 has been maintained by respected marque experts, Cropredy Bridge Garage, from whom he bought the car. They have continued to look after it as is evidenced by a large collection of invoices showing that no expense has been spared.
In summary, this 1969 Jensen FF, with fewer than 71,000 miles on the odometer, represents a significant piece of automotive history, combining groundbreaking technology with timeless design, a rare fusion of Italian styling, an American engine and British craftsmanship. These grand tourers are comfortable and relatively practical, with rear seats and a decent boot. Although an older restoration, the car still presents beautifully and is eminently usable and not so precious that you worry about taking it out. This is a super example and seems very sensibly guided when you consider the rarity and quality on offer.
