The Jensen Interceptor was a British grand tourer from the 1960's and 1970's, recognisable for its Italian styling featuring a unique rear glass canopy, mixed with muscular American V8. As iconic as the shape is, the drive of original cars have dated like so many others from that period. Luckily, what we have here is a Restomod carried out by Jensen International Automotive, an outfit who are dedicated to keeping the Interceptor alive, relevant and modern. This is not just a restored Interceptor, but one that has been tastefully improved in almost every way, it is a modern re-interpretation of the Jensen Interceptor.

The Model

"What we have here is one of the most beautiful cars ever made, stripped down to the bare metal, repainted, re-trimmed and fitted with just enough mechanical components to make it handle properly, ride even better and go like a b.... That's a properly good idea.."  Jeremy Clarkson - The Sunday Times

The Jensen International Automotive Interceptor R Supercharged (to give it its full name!) starts with a donor Jensen Interceptor (in this case a Jensen Interceptor III) which is then completely stripped down ready for a full nut & bolt rebuild and modernisation. What you end up with is a Jensen Interceptor but with subtle hints, like 18" wheels, as to what lies beneath.

The underpinnings of the car are all brought up to modern specification, out goes the, ancient by todays standards, live rear axle setup to welcome a modern independant rear suspension with adjustable coil overs. This transforms the handling and ride quality of the car, and also enables it to handle more power.

Thankfully, its party-piece is on hand to deliver, this car is fitted with a GM LT4 6.2 V8 under the bonnet, however to really ensure it delivers it is also fitted with a supercharger for good measure! In all, it produces 650bhp through an 8-speed automatic transmission and delivered to the wheels through a limited-slip differential. The wheels, now 18" in diameter, are fitted with modern Michellin Pilot Sport rubber to ensure power is delivered effectively and brutally.

Cosmetically the car receives very subtle updates, just cleaning up the front and rear end ever so slightly with the most notable change being the wheels which retained the original Jensen design just in a larger diameter giving the car a purposeful stance.

The interior of the car has received thorough modernisation whilst still retaining its old school charm. Almost all panels are trimmed buttery soft Oatmeal coloured leather, with diamond stitched quilted detailing on the seats and door panels. The dashboard houses some wonderful Smiths gauges and the centre console is home to sturdy, solid billet aluminium switchgear mounted on a turned aluminium facia. All this comes together to give a wonderful, handcrafted air to the cabin ensuring every inch feels tactile and special.

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Final Overview

This is the ultimate incarnation of the Jensen Interceptor. Having had a complete nut & bolt restoration and modernisation by Jensen International Automotive, this Jensen Interceptor R Supercharged perfectly blends the old school charm and style of the Interceptor but with modern comforts and performance. Its an enticing blend and perfectly suits the enthusiast who enjoys classic cars but who also appreciates the powertrain and chassis development in modern cars, who says you can't enjoy both at the same time.

Please do call to book an appointment to view, touch and hear this car, as well of course to try it on the road. I promise you'll be hooked from the first turn of the key, so please get in touch.

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