1964 Jensen CV8

Lot details
Registration No: BHE851B
Chassis No: 104/2245
Mot Expiry: Jan 2006

"The impression that emerged was of a car superbly suited to Grand Touring in the true sense. A very smooth silent 6-litre engine and transmission gave it a performance so effortless as to be entirely deceptive (Motor magazine, 1963).
Introduced at the October 1962 Earls Court Motor Show, the C-V8 instantly became one of the fastest four-seaters of its generation. Penned by Eric Neale in consultation with the Jensen brothers, its dramatic glassfibre bodywork clothed an advanced tubular chassis designed by the recently recruited Kevin Beattie. Equipped with independent coil-sprung front suspension, a 'live' rear axle, four-wheel Dunlop disc brakes, a limited slip differential and rack and pinion steering, the new Jensen was powered by a Chrysler-supplied 5.9 litre V8 engine allied to Torqueflite automatic transmission. Boasting some 305bhp and 395lbft of torque, the Anglo-American hybrid was reputedly capable of over 132mph. Not content to sit on their laurels, the Bromwich concern released an updated MKII version in October 1963. Distinguished by various minor body modifications, it remained in production until July 1965 and was notable as the first Jensen to feature Chrysler's legendary 383ci / 6.3 litre powerplant (330bhp, 425lbft).
Finished in maroon with tan leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in very good (engine, electrical equipment, interior trim, paintwork) to excellent (transmission, chassis, bodywork, wheels / tyres) condition. Dispatched by the works on November 5th 1964, it was apparently first registered as 'LG 148' to a Mr. Gooday of Sloan Square, London SW1. Thought to have been resident in Australia from the mid 1970s to the early 1990s, the past twelve months have reportedly seen it subject to extensive mechanical fettling. Treated to a "complete brake refurbishment" (new callipers, pads, pipes, flexible hoses), it also received a suspension overhaul that encompassed the bead-blasting / black two-pack painting of various components as well as the fitting of new bushes and Spax adjustable rear shock absorbers etc. Sporting a new windscreen, petrol tank and "complete stainless steel exhaust system", its renovated wheels wear fresh Michelin rubber. Further benefiting from a rebuilt gearbox and electronic ignition, it is believed but not warranted to have covered 101,000 miles from new. One of just 250 MKII C-V8s made, it is offered for sale with MOT certificate current until January 2006 and historic class (free) road tax until July 2006.