1974 Jensen Interceptor Convertible

Highlights

• Comprehensively restored over a two-year period
• Former part of the Rudi Klein collection in South Los Angeles
• Stored in a dry climate for approximately 35 years prior to restoration
• Imported from the USA and now registered on UK plates
• Voluntary MOT valid until July 2027 with no advisories

The Appeal

The introduction of a convertible Interceptor was Jensen president Kjell Qvale's attempt to coax Rolls-Royce customers away from the Corniche. The Interceptor was considerably more sporting than its Crewe-built competitor, while still offering long-legged grand touring ability. It's the sort of car in which one could set off for the South of France in a heartbeat, and enjoy every minute.
This 1974 example has an interesting transatlantic history. Exported new to the United States in December 1974, it is believed to have been driven by an executive of Trend Systems Inc. in Washington State before joining the collection of Rudi Klein at his "Auto Haus Klein" premises in South Los Angeles. After approximately 35 years in dry climate storage, the car was imported to the UK in 2018 and acquired by the current owner in 2023.

It has since undergone a comprehensive two-year rebuild and restoration encompassing the engine, gearbox, braking, cooling, suspension, steering and more. Now finished in Westminster blue with a blue mohair hood and a black/ivory interior, the car presents in very clean and tidy order. The vendor states it drives very well.

Key Information

• Mileage: 35,755 miles (indicated)
• Country of registration: United Kingdom (LHD car imported from USA)
• Technical inspection status: MOT valid until 23rd July 2027, no advisories, (MOT/road tax exempt)
• Technical specs: 7.2-litre V8 petrol, three-speed automatic
• Paperwork: detailed restoration sheet and numerous recent invoices accompany the car, heritage certificate; vendor advises minimal service history available due to long-term storage

The Detail

• Engine rebuilt with a performance-upgraded camshaft
• Edelbrock carburettor fitted in place of the original Thermoquad
• Now finished in Westminster blue; originally delivered in 'triple black'
• Bumpers rechromed
• Five 17" alloy wheels fitted with new tyres
• Front seats replaced and sun-bleached leather trim renewed
• Rear seat squabs colour co-ordinated with front seats and door furniture
• New blue mohair hood fitted, replacing the original black vinyl
• Grey headliner fitted, replacing the original fawn-coloured one
• New black carpets fitted throughout
• All instruments and switches reported to work as intended
• Original-style period 8-track tape player fitted, though one channel produces a 'fuzzy' sound
• Four new speakers installed
• Very minor paint blemishes noted on the bonnet
• Believed to have sustained minor non-structural accident damage in 1980

BEFORE YOU BUY

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