Jensen Motors LTD introduced the Interceptor in 1966 as luxury GT that replaced the C-V8 model. Carrozzeria Touring was responsible for the three-door design with a rear hatch and traditional steel body construction, in leu of the preceding model’s fiberglass body. This was assisted by Jensen’s reputation for excellent build quality complimented by reliable American V8 performance. The combination resulted in strong sales and praise from the motoring press who quickly dubbed the model “The Gentleman’s Express.” At the time, the price of an Interceptor was nearly 50% more than an E-type equivalent. Early models featured the “low deck, big block” Chrysler 383ci (6.3L) V8 mated with either a 4-speed manual gear box or the 3-speed Chrysler “TorqueFlite” automatic transmission. Power Steering was standard beginning in 1968 models while the “high deck, big block” Chrysler 440 (7.2L) V8 was first available in the 1971 models. The new engine was one of a slew of features with now standard air-conditioning and GKN alloy wheels. These features combined with federally mandated bumper restrictions were marketed as the Interceptor Mk III. This, however, did little to help the smaller manufacturers, like Jensen, that were struggling in the economic downturn in the 1970’s brought on by the oil crisis. Jensen’s reputation of not compromising quality eventually led to the company entering receivership by 1975. While Jensen introduced a convertible Interceptor a year earlier, it ultimately did little to help the struggling company’s bottom line. Production of the Interceptor ceased in 1976, though it’s hybrid of American V8 performance, Italian Design and English coachwork left a lasting impression that few have achieved since. Pop culture continues to immortalize the model, with an Interceptor showcased in the 2013 Fast & Furious film. The 1974 Jensen Interceptor Mark III featured here is finished in the stunning color combination of Carmine Red over a Tan Connolly Leather interior. Per the accompanying Statement of Origin Certificate, chassis no. 9367 was completed at the West Bromwich factory in February 1974. Its first owner and original selling dealer are documented by the original Warranty Certificate from Jensen Motors LTD, which still accompanies the car today! Per said guarantee, the Interceptor was sold new through Weaver-Beatty Motor Co. of Lakewood, Colorado. The first documented owner, a resident of nearby Golden, CO retained the Jensen no later than December 1982, when ownership was transferred to a resident of Littleton, Co. just south of Denver. In the fall of 1986, the Jensen was acquired by its third documented owner through Interlake Porsche-Audi of Bellevue, Washington. An accompanying odometer mileage statement from the November 1986 sale lists 56,499 actual miles. Shortly thereafter this owner treated the car to a fresh set of brakes, tires, belts, alternator, battery and a new dual exhaust system, the receipts for which are included with the history file. The third documented owner reputedly maintained the Interceptor for 36 years during which they actively participated in the Jensen Interceptor Owner’s Club. Furthermore J.I.O.C. newsletters from 1977 through 1982 accompany the vehicle today. The Interceptor Mk III was acquired by its current owner in November 2022 when the car was relocated to St. Louis. In the spring of 2023, the vehicle was brought to IT’S ALIVE! for a comprehensive service. Under the care of our in-house specialists, the number’s matching 440 V8 received new top & bottom end gaskets in addition to a pair of remanufactured cylinder heads. Additionally, the 3-speed automatic gearbox received a full transmission service completed with a new filter and output shaft seal. Today this Interceptor presents itself wonderfully as a well-maintained example with several notable upgrades. Under the original Chrysler 440 air-cleaner sits an Edelbrock 4-barrell carburetor for reliable starting & running. Upgraded comforts include the complete Air-Conditioning kit from K&D Enterprises and a Kenwood head unit with AM/FM CD Player and AUX connection. Careful examination of the Chrysler 7.2L V8 Block and the TorqueFlite 3-speed automatic gearbox prove the pieces to be “numbers matching” per the Statement of Origin Certificate. Curiously the factory exterior color is not noted as the current shade of metallic Carmine Red, but White. Exactly when the color change took place in the vehicle’s timeline is not documented, however the presence of the cars current color on the inside of the door jambs, engine compartment and underside of the louvered hood itself are indications as to how well the vehicle was prepped prior to the application of the improved color. The Tan Leather interior appears largely original and is still plush with some visual evidence of color touchup. As a testament to the Interceptor’s provenance and condition it was bestowed a first in class award at the 2023 All British Car & Cycle Show in St. Louis. IT’S ALIVE! extremely privileged to represent one of the best of examples of “The Gentleman’s Express” to be found on the market today. If you are the next caretaker of this classic GT then give us a call at 314-710-6600 or email us at Sales@ItsAliveAuto.com.