The Jensen Interceptor created quite a stir when first shown to the public at the 1966 Earls Court Motor Show. Here was a new, stunning-looking, Gran Turismo supercar, styled in Italy by Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera – bearing the Jensen name, but every inch a competitor for the likes of Aston Martin and the prestige Italian makes.

Building on the relatively short-lived Jensen CV8 dating from 1962, the Interceptor used American V8 power in the shape of the 6-litre Chrysler engine – rated at 330bhp - mated to a Torqueflite 3-speed automatic gearbox. Where it differed majorly was in the use of its shapely all-steel body, rather than using fibreglass per the CV8.

The Interceptor was a great success for the company and was built in convertible, coupe and groundbreaking four-wheel drive Ferguson Formula options. Production ran for 10 years, over 3 model Series – the Mk. 11 appearing in 1969 and the Mk. 111 following in 1971. The external appearance of the car altered little, but the mechanicals were improved with enlarged engines, improved suspension, braking and steering. The interiors became increasingly luxurious with better seating, air conditioning etc. etc. Between 1966 and 1976, a total of a little over 7,000 cars of all Series were built.

The rarest of these is the Mk. 1, as offered here, of which only around 1,000 were made. This early car was first registered in the UK in July 1967 and we know no more of its history until 1993, when it was exported to Finland. Believed to be in reasonable original condition it was however treated by its new, enthusiast owner to a full professional restoration over a period of 4 years. After restoration, the car was little used and stored in a heated garage, maintaining its very good, renovated condition.

The Jensen was offered for sale by his estate following the owner’s death and purchased by a Jersey resident, who bought the car into the island, re-registering it in 2022. As might be anticipated, given relatively little use over 20 plus years, the car has needed a certain amount of mechanical servicing and re-commissioning to return it to first class driving condition, with attention given to the usual suspects – fuel, ignition and braking systems.