Vehicle Description
For automobile enthusiasts in the 1960s and 70s, the term "hybrid"
had a rather different meaning than it does today. In fact, hybrids
of the 1970s were pretty much the polar opposite of the high-tech
fuel sipping eco-mobiles we see all over today's roads. A hybrid of
the 60s and 70s combined coachbuilt European style and handling
with the unsophisticated but undoubtedly effective grunt of an
American V8 drivetrain. Many great cars were built on this formula,
some more successful than others. Early trend-setters included
Facel Vega, Bristol, Monteverdi and Iso Rivolta. Lesser known cars
such as the Momo Mirage and DeTomaso Longchamp carried the torch
against the likes of Aston Martin and Ferrari. But perhaps one of
the most examples of this hybrid formula was the Jensen
Interceptor. Built in original form between 1966 and 1976 (though
several attempts to revive the model were made later), the
Interceptor combined a British chassis with a Carrozzeria
Touring-designed body, and big, thumping Chrysler V8 power. Jensen
was no stranger to building American powered cars, having a long
relationship with Chrysler thanks to the fiberglass CV8. With the
new Interceptor, Jensen's traditional fiberglass body was eschewed
for steel and mated to a steel chassis featuring independent front
suspension and a traditional Salisbury rear diff. Chrysler's proven
383 cubic inch V8 powered the first series, but for 1971, the
big-block 440 cubic inch unit was chosen for its superior power and
torque ratings. All cars were fitted the bullet-proof Torque-Flite
automatic transmission, though a manual could be had on the
earliest examples. Customers could opt for the four-seat coupe with
its distinct wrap-around rear glass, or for an equally elegant
four-seat cabriolet. Whichever body style was selected, buyers were
treated to a sumptuous, leather-lined cabin with aircraft-inspired
switchgear, as was de rigueur for the time. While certainly not a
lithe sports car, the Interceptor was no-doubt a proper GT thanks
to the endless torque from the massive MoPar 440 and exceptional
ride and handling characteristics. The style was very distinct and
unlike some of the other "hybrids" of the period, unmistakable as
anything but a Jensen Interceptor. Today, these fabulous GT cars
are highly desirable for their excellent road manners, ease of
service and exotic good looks. Comparable to a contemporary Aston
Martin in terms of luxury and performance, the Interceptor can
deliver today's enthusiasts many of the same thrills at a fraction
of the cost. Our featured 1975 Interceptor III Convertible is a
late-production convertible with all of the engineering and design
refinements that make it one of the best driving and most desirable
of the range. Finished in striking red over tan, it is unusually
flashy yet still retains an air of elegance and sophisticated
style. This high-quality Interceptor has been treated to extensive
restoration and refurbishment and it presents in beautiful
condition. The red paint is excellent and the body is
laser-straight with crisp body lines and excellent panel fit. It is
very well detailed with correct, restored GKN alloy wheels and
lovely restored brightwork. These late Interceptors have fabulous
cabins and this example is no exception with seemingly endless
swathes of tan leather in excellent order. Likewise the wool
carpets have been restored as well as the beautiful burl walnut
trim. A very nice Moto-Lita three-spoke wood wheel has been fitted
and the stereo system upgraded to modern components. The tan
Everflex convertible top is in excellent condition and operates
smoothly at the touch of a switch and a leather top boot keeps
things tidy when the top is down. In proper drophead coupe
tradition, the top is fully lined and insulated to ensure quiet and
comfortable top-up motoring. The engine bay is pleasingly
well-detailed, and while showing some moderate use, remains clean
and tidy with plenty of evidence of careful maintenance. The
prominent air cleaner has been painted red to match the bodywork
and the car retains its proper original Jenesen-branded alloy valve
covers. With a quality restoration and well-sorted mechanicals,
this Interceptor III is ready for enjoyment on the road. When
compared to its contemporaries it also represents an amazing value.
This is a proper Italian designed, British-built GT car with loads
of luxury and the added bonus of relative ease of service, thumping
performance, and real exclusivity.