Vehicle Description
As Jensen's stylish new Touring-designed Interceptor hit showrooms,
the firm announced a highly sophisticated companion model developed
in conjunction with Ferguson Research Ltd. The new Jensen FF
(standing forFerguson Formulaand notably, not badged an
Interceptor) featured both permanent all-wheel-drive and
DunlopMaxaretantilock brakes, and it was hailed as it was the
world's first pure road car with AWD and ABS brakes, predating the
Audi quattro by fourteen years. While the FF was about four inches
longer than the Interceptor to accommodate the new drive system,
there was little to differentiate the two, besides the twin vents
in the front wings, a revised front grille, and subtle "FF"
badging. The transfer case and specialized Dunlop brake servo meant
that only right-hand drive was possible, which limited appeal
outside of the UK, as did the price - some 30% more expensive than
an Interceptor. Those factors, combined with its prodigious thirst
from Chrysler's 6.3-liter (383-cubic inch) V8, meant Jensen built
just 320 between 1966 and 1971. While the FF may have been a
commercial failure, it is a significant car in history, predicting
technology that is now commonplace on even the most basic commuter
cars. This 1969 FF stands out from the approximately 180 known
survivors as the only example fully restored and updated to Series
4 specs by the Jensen factory. Following the marque's revival by
Ian Orford in 1983, Interceptor production resumed with the 'Series
4,' and Jensen Parts & Service offered works-backed service and
restoration work for existing owners. As a 1969 model, this car is
officially a Mk II, and it was first registered in the UK on the
2nd of January, 1970, to Mr. D. A. Wilks of Solihull. Five years
later, it moved to the Isle of Man and was registered as MAN106F,
which was later changed to 47 MN. In the mid-1980s, it came into
the care of Mr. Hubert Bauer of Germany. In his quest for an
ostensibly new FF, Mr. Bauer immediately sent it to Jensen Parts &
Service for a complete rebuild and update to the latest Series 4
specification. At the works, the body was stripped, and any
corrosion was replaced with new panels. Jensen added new doors to
incorporate the latest safety-designed door handles, and the shell
was resprayed inside and out in white. Concurrently, works
technicians fit a brand new, fuel-injected MoPar 360 cubic inch V8
that was lighter and more powerful than the old 383. They also
rebuilt the FF's AWD drivetrain, renewed the ABS brakes and
electrics, and fitted new parts wherever possible. The interior was
entirely overhauled with the latest Series 4 dash and retrimmed in
beautiful dark blue Vantagefield leather. While there was never an
official Series 4 FF coupe, this car is the closest anyone has ever
come to it. In 1990, it returned to the UK, where it remained until
2000 when the most recent owner, a devoted Jensen enthusiast from
the USA, acquired it. By that time, it had been resprayed to a high
standard in its current bright silver and otherwise beautifully
maintained since its factory rebuild. After more than twenty years
of continuous ownership, the unique Series 4 FF is in excellent
condition thanks to meticulous care and maintenance, with stacks of
receipts documenting its care. The body has pleasingly crisp lines,
consistent panel fit, and excellent paintwork. It is adorned with
correct badging and trim, and it rolls on works-fitted S4 alloy
wheels, which are subtly color-keyed to the body. The big doors
open with satisfying precision and reveal the plush,
leather-trimmed cabin. The front seats are remarkably comfortable,
with an excellent driving position. There's a massive boot beneath
the distinct domed rear glass, with more than enough room for your
luggage on a long-distance tour. Instruments, controls, and the
leather-wrapped steering wheel are all correct fitments for the
Series 4, and equipment includes electric windows, air
conditioning, and modern Bluetooth-enabled radio. Under the bonnet,
the 5.9-liter Chrysler V8, fitted by the factory in 1987, is tidy
and well detailed. Receipts show it was rebuilt while in the most
recent owner's care and updated with high-performance cam,
valvetrain, aluminum intake, Edelbrock carburetor, and Sanden air
conditioning compressor for more efficient operation. Many of the
original components, including the A/C compressor and fuel
injection system, are included in the sale should the next keeper
wish to return it to its original spec. Extensive documentation
includes MOT certificates, receipts, and correspondence from Jensen
detailing the car's transformation and current service and
maintenance records, factory service booklet, owner's manual, and
much more. It has appeared in numerous prestigious concours events,
including Meadowbrook and St. Johns, and remains wonderfully suited
to show or touring enjoyment. As the only known FF restored at the
factory and with a fascinating history in the hands of marque
devotees, this stylish and technically advanced Anglo-American
hybrid would be a most welcome addition to any enthusiast's stable.
Offers welcome and trades considered For additional details please
view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6993-1969-jensen-ff-coupe/
