Jensen Interceptor - Model History and Specifications

Model History and Specifications

Jensen used Chrysler V8 for the Interceptor, starting with the 6276 cc (383 c.i.) with optional manual (Mark I, only 22 built) or TorqueFlite automatic transmissions driving the rear wheels through a limited slip differential in a conventional Salisbury rear axle. In 1970 the 383 c.i. produced 335 hp SAE gross, or 270 hp SAE net. Since this engine was detuned by Chrysler for use with regular gasoline and only produced 250 hp SAE net in 1971, Jensen chose to use the 440 c.i. Chrysler engine for 1971.

For 1971, two 440 c.i. engines were offered. One had a 4-barrel carburetor and it produced 305 hp SAE net. The other, which had three 2-barrel carburetors and produced 330 hp SAE net, was only available in 1971. Only 232 cars were built with the 440 Six Pak, and had the distinction of being the most powerful car ever to have been made by Jensen.

For 1972, the 440 c.i. engine with three 2-barrel carburetors were no longer produced by Chrysler Corp. The 440 c.i. engine that remained was detuned to 280 hp SAE net. Chrysler continued to offer a high performance 440 c.i. engine through to 1976 when it only produced 255 hp SAE net.

The Interceptor took its styling cues from the Brasinca Uirapuru, with a distinctive large, curving wrap-around rear window that doubled as a tailgate. The original specification included electric windows, reclining front seats, a wood rimmed steering wheel, radio with twin speakers, reversing lights and an electric clock. Power steering was included as standard from September 1968.

The Mark II was announced in October 1969, with slightly revised styling around the headlamps, front grill and front bumper. It also introduced ventilated disc brakes in lieu of the earlier un-ventilated discs and a completely restyled fascia / dashboard. The Mark III of 1971 revised the front grill, headlamp finishers and bumper treatment again. It also had revised seats, optional fully cast alloy wheels other minor improvements. The 6.3 litre 383ci engine was also superseded by the 7.2 litre 440ci in 1971. The Mark III was divided to G-, H-, J-series depending on the production year.

The Interceptor was briefly re-introduced in the late 1980s as the Series 4 (S4), as a low-volume bespoke motor car marketed in a similar way to Bristol. Though the body remained essentially the same as the last of the main production run of series 3; the engine was a much smaller Chrysler supplied 360 cubic inch (5.9 litre) which used more modern controls to reduce emissions comparatively and still produce about 230 hp. In addition, the interior slightly re-designed with the addition of modern "sports" front seats as opposed to the armchair style of the earlier models.

The then owner sold up in 1988 to an engineering company believed to be in a stronger position to manufacture the car which lasted until 1993 with approximately 36 cars built, and while work commenced on development of a series 5 (S5) Interceptor, once again receivers were called in and the company was liquidated.