Description
This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, The Iconic Sale at the NEC Classic Motor Show 2024 - Cars on Saturday the 9th of November, NEC, Birmingham, B40 1NT. The Grand Tourers Collection was curated by a now deceased gentleman, who amassed some thirty-eight cars at one stage. Each car stands on its own merits, and represents an era of stylish roadsters and hand-built coupes. Offered at No Reserve, the cars are worthy of serious attention.
The Interceptor was as much Italian as British, designed as it was by Carrozzeria Touring with the bodyshells built by Vignale before being delivered to the West Bromwich factory to be paired with the inimitable 6. 3-litre Chrysler V8 and mechanicals. When new, the Interceptor cost substantially more than an Aston Martin and was double the price of an E-Type Jaguar. One would struggle to find a connection between Frank Sinatra and Sir Matt Busby but both drove an Interceptor. The celebrity ownership list is extensive whilst the Interceptor's appearance on a slew of glamourous TV action series during the period, gave the car a certain louche, playboy image.
The Interceptor III, introduced in 1971, had a revised front grille, headlamp finishers and bumper treatment. It had GKN alloy wheels and air conditioning as standard, and revised seats. It was divided into G-, H-, and J-series depending on the production year. The 6. 3-litre 383 ci engine was superseded by the 7. 2-litre 440 ci in 1971.
Jensen had fallen on hard times by 1975, owing to the then world-wide recession, and to problems with its Jensen-Healey sports car. The company was placed into receivership, and the receivers allowed production to continue until the available cache of parts was exhausted. Production of the Interceptor ended in 1976, marking the end of an era.
First registered on the 1st September 1973, the incredibly detailed history file shows evidence of decades of maintenance from marque specialists, including the renowned Cropredy Bridge Cars. Offered from six-year prior ownership, this charming car is presented with an odometer reading of 55, 598 miles at the time of cataloguing, along with reams of receipts and a fresh MOT for the sale.
A lovely example tantalizingly offered at No Reserve and worthy of serious attention.
