2007 Jensen SV8

The Jensen Motor company was established in 1934 and based in West Bromwich, founded by two brothers Alan and Richard. Over a period of some fifty years they would become involved with established manufacturers and produce a model range that still evokes a passion. In 1955 production of the 541 began. A well-received design, penned by the ex-Wolesley designer Eric Neale, the then revolutionary material of fibreglass was used for the bodywork. Its replacement was the Jensen Interceptor arriving in 1966 with Carrozzeria Touring responsible for a design that would establish Jensen as a worthy player in the Grand Tourer market.This particular car is currently the last one made and registered as a Jensen. It was constructed under licence by SV Automotive Ltd following the demise of Jensen Motors Limited in 2002. Approximately 23 SV8's were made by Jensen Motors before they ceased trading and then a further 13 or 14 cars were made under licence.

Although not the last chassis number, this was the last car actually built and it was registered on 1st April 2007 by SV Automotive Ltd in Cirencester. The present owner purchased the car from them in August 2007 when it had covered just 51 miles. At that stage it was unfinished, it was Silver in colour and fitted with leather seats and a chrome dash.

The car then went straight to SV8 specialists, Rejen Sales Ltd in Winchester, to be substantially modified, repainted in Jensen blue and a roof frame and cover (modelled on the original pattern) made and fitted. The modifications included upgrading the rear suspension, the installation of the fuel tank, drop glass fitted to windows, leather cladding to steering column as well as generally tidying up all the body panels and trim, all at a cost of over £8,000.

The car has now covered approximately 5,500 miles and used only in summer. It is still in very good condition. The owner reports that it drives extremely well and is very fast! The Ford Cobra 4.6litre V8 engine is supposedly capable of 0-60mph in 4.8 seconds with a top speed of 160mph. Everything works as it should with the exception of the automatic boot release but there is a manual alternative.

The car comes complete with an MoT to April 2013. There is also a comprehensive history file that includes the original purchase invoice, original publicity materials, invoices detailing the above work, together with a photo-CD from SV Automotive with pictures of the car in construction. Also included is a tailor made Classic Additions soft car cover with a Jensen motive on the front.

This car is now available to view at our secure indoor facility in Warwickshire. Prospective buyers should contact Paul Campbell in the first instance on 0044 (0)7812 013963 to discuss the car and arrange an appointment to view.