Jensen Motors LTD introduced the Interceptor in 1966 as luxury GT
that replaced the C-V8 model. Carrozzeria Touring was responsible
for the three-door design with a rear hatch and traditional steel
body construction, in leu of the preceding model's fiberglass body.
This was assisted by Jensen's reputation for excellent build
quality complimented by reliable American V8 performance. The
combination resulted in strong sales and praise from the motoring
press who quickly dubbed the model "The Gentleman's Express." At
the time, the price of an Interceptor was nearly 50% more than an
E-type equivalent. Early models featured the "low deck, big block"
Chrysler 383ci (6.3L) V8 mated with either a 4-speed manual gear
box or the 3-speed Chrysler "TorqueFlite" automatic transmission.
Power Steering was standard beginning in 1968 models while the
"high deck, big block" Chrysler 440 (7.2L) V8 was first available
in the 1971 models. The new engine was one of a slew of features
with now standard air-conditioning and GKN alloy wheels. These
features combined with federally mandated bumper restrictions were
marketed as the Interceptor Mk III. This, however, did little to
help the smaller manufacturers, like Jensen, that were struggling
in the economic downturn in the 1970's brought on by the oil
crisis. Jensen's reputation of not compromising quality eventually
led to the company entering receivership by 1975. While Jensen
introduced a convertible Interceptor a year earlier, it ultimately
did little to help the struggling company's bottom line. Production
of the Interceptor ceased in 1976, though it's hybrid of American
V8 performance, Italian Design and English coachwork left a lasting
impression that few have achieved since. Pop culture continues to
immortalize the model, with an Interceptor showcased in the 2013
Fast & Furious film.
The 1974 Jensen Interceptor Mark III featured here is finished in
the stunning color combination of Carmine Red over a Tan Connolly
Leather interior. Per the accompanying Statement of Origin
Certificate, chassis no. 9367 was completed at the West Bromwich
factory in February 1974. Its first owner and original selling
dealer are documented by the original Warranty Certificate from
Jensen Motors LTD, which still accompanies the car today! Per said
guarantee, the Interceptor was sold new through Weaver-Beatty Motor
Co. of Lakewood, Colorado. The first documented owner, a resident
of nearby Golden, CO retained the Jensen no later than December
1982, when ownership was transferred to a resident of Littleton,
Co. just south of Denver. In the fall of 1986, the Jensen was
acquired by its third documented owner through Interlake
Porsche-Audi of Bellevue, Washington. An accompanying odometer
mileage statement from the November 1986 sale lists 56,499 actual
miles. Shortly thereafter this owner treated the car to a fresh set
of brakes, tires, belts, alternator, battery and a new dual exhaust
system, the receipts for which are included with the history file.
The third documented owner reputedly maintained the Interceptor for
36 years during which they actively participated in the Jensen
Interceptor Owner's Club. Furthermore J.I.O.C. newsletters from
1977 through 1982 accompany the vehicle today. The Interceptor Mk
III was acquired by its current owner in November 2022 when the car
was relocated to St. Louis. In the spring of 2023, the vehicle was
brought to IT'S ALIVE! for a comprehensive service. Under the care
of our in-house specialists, the number's matching 440 V8 received
new top & bottom end gaskets in addition to a pair of
remanufactured cylinder heads. Additionally, the 3-speed automatic
gearbox received a full transmission service completed with a new
filter and output shaft seal.
Today this Interceptor presents itself wonderfully as a
well-maintained example with several notable upgrades. Under the
original Chrysler 440 air-cleaner sits an Edelbrock 4-barrell
carburetor for reliable starting & running. Upgraded comforts
include the complete Air-Conditioning kit from K&D Enterprises
and a Kenwood head unit with AM/FM CD Player and AUX connection.
Careful examination of the Chrysler 7.2L V8 Block and the
TorqueFlite 3-speed automatic gearbox prove the pieces to be
"numbers matching" per the Statement of Origin Certificate.
Curiously the factory exterior color is not noted as the current
shade of metallic Carmine Red, but White. Exactly when the color
change took place in the vehicle's timeline is not documented,
however the presence of the cars current color on the inside of the
door jambs, engine compartment and underside of the louvered hood
itself are indications as to how well the vehicle was prepped prior
to the application of the improved color. The Tan Leather interior
appears largely original and is still plush with some visual
evidence of color touchup. As a testament to the Interceptor's
provenance and condition it was bestowed a first in class award at
the 2023 All British Car & Cycle Show in St. Louis. IT'S ALIVE!
extremely privileged to represent one of the best of examples of
"The Gentleman's Express" to be found on the market today. If you
are the next caretaker of this classic GT then give us a call at
314-710-6600 or email us at
[email protected].
