Estimated Price: £45,000 - £55,000

With stunning styling by Italy’s Touring, towering performance from its 383ci Chrysler V8, and a beautifully appointed interior, the Jensen Interceptor captured the hearts of enthusiasts the world over when it was launched in 1966. Here was a grand touring car of immense style and capability, produced by a smallish British manufacturer, competing against the likes of Ferrari, Maserati, and Aston Martin. The Interceptor was an immediate success, and while its price was beyond the reach of most, a long list of celebrity owners turned Jensen into a household name. 

With performance from the big Chrysler V8 to match its looks, the Interceptor also boasted a Torqueflite three-speed transmission (a four speed manual was optional), four-wheel disc brakes and rack and pinion steering, while it utilised a conventional suspension design with double wishbones at the front and a live rear axle with semi-elliptic springs. 

Jensen then pulled another rabbit out of its hat by introducing the flagship FF (for Ferguson Formula) model, which used a four-wheel drive system developed by Harry Ferguson. The Interceptor’s platform was stretched to accommodate a front differential along with Dunlop’s equally innovative ‘Maxaret’ mechanical anti-lock braking system, enabling the FF’s drive to be split 37/63 front/rear, together with a limited-slip rear differential for improved traction.  Beyond expensive, the Jensen FF (the name ‘Interceptor’ did not appear on the car) was made in tiny numbers, with just 196 Series 1 examples built in 1967-1969, followed by 109 Srs 2 variants, and a mere15 Srs 3s in 1971.  

On offer here, FF #119/015 has a fascinating history in its own right, however, its black leather interior, remarkably played a significant part in the history of the FF. It's a long story, (https://www.jensenmuseum.org/jensen-ff-harry-ferguson-research/) but the interior of this car was originally fitted to #119/03, the first true production manufactured FF, kept by the factory for several years as their demonstrator and publicity vehicle and driven by a number of influential people within the automobile industry both here and abroad including His Royal Highness, The Duke of Edinburgh who was loaned the car in May 1967. It is not known at present how long Harry Ferguson Research Ltd. kept 119/003, but it's believed the car was sold on during the early 1970s. Its relevance here begins in 1983 when Jensen enthusiast, Tom Scullane, failed to save Harry Ferguson's first true production FF from a Sheffield scrapyard, but did arrive in time to rescue the entire interior. He reports that over the years all the remaining parts from 119/003 were sold on, with the black interior eventually being fitted into Jensen FF 119/015, the fabulous FF we have on offer here. 

Finished in Dark Metallic Green with a contrasting silver roof, this is an excellent opportunity to acquire one of Jensen’s most technically adventurous models. Purchased by the present custodian in 2016 from the well-respected motoring journalist, Ray Potter, the Jensen has been used regularly and enjoyed as intended until more recently, when overseas commitments have understandably taken precedence. Its earlier ownership history is equally intriguing, having previously belonged to Ian Hill, bassist with the legendary 'heavy metal' band, Judas Priest.

In good overall condition, the FF starts, runs and drives well, although the current owner advises that it would now benefit from a thorough service to bring the best out of it. During current ownership, the car was entrusted to renowned Jensen marque specialists, Cropredy Bridge Garage, who undertook an assessment and associated work in 2021, with further input from Richard Appleyard.

Accompanied by a comprehensive history file documenting its interesting past, this is a Jensen FF that offers scope to be enjoyed on the road while providing the next custodian with the opportunity to undertake further improvements at their own pace. A distinctive and historically significant British grand tourer, this example combines its advanced engineering, engaging provenance and usable condition to offer an appealing prospect for the Jensen enthusiast.

Your early inspection is welcomed and encouraged to allow prospective purchasers to fully assess the car and establish whether it meets their expectations and requirements.