1966 Jensen C-V8 MkIII

Registration No: VAM 896D
Chassis No: 112/2412
MOT: Exempt

• 1 of just 178 MkIII cars made to right-hand drive specification
• 383ci (6.3 litre) V8 engine allied to three-speed automatic transmission
• In need or recommissioning but running and driving within the last few years
• Offered from long-term family ownership

By the late 1950s the need to offer automatic transmission in luxury cars, even those of sporting character, signalled the end of Jensen's reliance on Austin's 4.0-litre six. The latter being deemed insufficiently powerful, the West Bromwich concern turned to Chrysler's 5.9-litre V8 that came with the admirable Torque-Flite automatic gearbox as standard. The engine/transmission package debuted in the all-new, glassfibre-bodied C-V8 in October 1962, and while the car's highly individual styling was not to everyone's taste there were no complaints about its performance, the C-V8's 136mph maximum speed and outstanding acceleration making it 'one of the fastest cars we have ever tested, and the fastest full four-seater', according to The Motor. The model was revised through MkII and III versions, Chrysler's 330bhp 6.3-litre V8 becoming standard part way through MkII production. Introduced in 1965, the last-of-the-line MkIII differed from its predecessor by virtue of its dual-circuit braking, equal-sized headlamps, separate flashers and walnut dashboard. A total of only 178 Jensen CV-8 Mk IIIs had been produced when production ceased in 1966.

Finished in striking Orange with Black leather interior trim and riding on Minilite alloy wheels; this C-V8 has been in current family ownership since approximately 1987. Said to be offered in “generally very good condition” and despite a lengthy period of dry storage; the car has been run and driven in recent years, even passing an MOT test as recently as June 2014. With just 178 MkIII C-V8s produced in right-hand drive configuration, it is believed that a mere 21 of these stylish sports cars survive on the UK roads today. Combining American ‘muscle’, with sleek British styling, this is arguably one of the rarest but affordable sporting grand tourers available. Attractively guided, this particularly example offers the purchaser what we believe to be a straightforward and highly rewarding recommissioning project, ready for summer.

For more information, please contact:
Adam Sykes
adam.sykes@handh.co.uk
07429 600332