Jensen's C-V8 replacement debuted in 1966, reviving a name first employed in the 1950s. However, several of the firm's traditions were broken in that the design was outsourced to Carrozzeria Touring and the bodies made of steel, not fibreglass. Early shells were built in Italy by Vignale prior to production being established at Jensen's Kelvin Way plant in West Bromwich. Power came from a 6,276cc (383ci) Chrysler V8, driving through either a 4-speed manual or 3-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission to an LSD Salisbury rear axle. Specification included electric windows, reclining seats, wood-rim steering wheel, radio with twin speakers, electric clock and reversing lights. Production of the Interceptor II (occasionally called the MkII or Series II) commenced in October 1969 and lasted for two years.
This particular car has a chassis prefix, #123, so was one of 694 right-hand drive UK-cars powered by the E-Series 383ci V8 generating around 330bhp. It was first registered in the spring of 1970 and supplied new to British actor, Robin Ellis, best known for playing the leading role in the BBC series, Poldark, based on the novels of Winston Graham. Purchased for just under £8,000 or the equivalent of £150,000 in todays money, the Jensen was a serious car for special customers.
Several enthusiastic owners enjoyed the Jensen over the years until 2015 when the decision was made to completely restore it. The car's condition today is testament to the outstanding workmanship of the specialist team commissioned to complete the restoration and we understand that this glorious, long-legged GT performs as well as it looks. The provenance and history of the Jensen is supported by a large history file containing the factory pre-sale inspection documents and paperwork which confirms that its first owner, Robin Adair Ellis, took delivery of the car on 6th May 1970. Also within the file is a detailed account of the restoration with supporting documentation, the current V5C ready for transfer or export, old MOT Certificates, the Heritage Certificate and a wealth of invoices for care and maintenance over the years, with the most recent service carried out in January 2023.
The car was purchased by our vendor last year and fitted with a new power steering set up. The intention was to commission Jensen International Automotive to upgrade the car with their full Corvette engine and running gear conversion, at a cost of some £200,000, however, having viewed and subsequently purchased one of the early Corvette-engined, upgraded JIA cars from us in November 2023, he thoroughly enjoys the car and plans to keep it, making this car surplus to his requirements.
Finished in a lovely shade of very pale grey, the Jensen continues to attract all the right attention and as a well restored and very well-maintained example, should only require basic maintenance. A rare blend of Italian styling, an American engine and British craftsmanship, these big GTs are comfortable and relatively practical with rear seats and a decent boot. It's a beautiful British classic that will undoubtedly be the talking point at any classic car show or event and would be welcome anywhere.
