Sometimes it’s rather funny to sit around and listen to some of the younger generation enthusiasts ponder over classic vehicles. I never considered myself an expert on classics, but I have worked towards getting a better grasp on automotive history dating back to over 100 years ago.
Modified Jensen Interceptor from Fast and Furious 6 movie.
For those that are intuned to classic vehicles, you will fondly remember Jensen Motors, a British car maker founded in 1934. Since that time, you can probably remember seeing one or MAYBE two such vehicles in local shows or even on the road at one time. They are a rare sight and one of the popular “modern-day” renditions remains to be the Jensen Interceptor, a GT car produced from 1966 to 1976. You probably remember the Jensen Interceptor on the Fast and Furious 6 movie as a modified 1971 model. Yeah, that one was pretty bad assed.
As it turns out, there is a resurrection of the Jensen brand. To get things restarted they are working on a rendition of a Jensen GT, which you see here teased in clay model form, marking the companies return to building cars. Reportedly, the Jensen GT, at 3,373 pounds, will be powered by a 6.4-liter supercharged V8 with 665 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque sourced by General Motors. We can see a few familiar cues in the design, such as the Jaguar F-Type-looking tail lights. Overall, the Jensen GT, so far, looks awesome. We can’t wait for this one, and the next Interceptor 2, which is also reportedly in the works to make a return in 2016.
© Jensen International Automotive Ltd. November 2014
Jensen GTTechnical specification
Whilst the original Interceptor models continue to be supported in standard and modified forms, Jensen Cars Ltd has commissioned one of the leading designers in the ‘Retro’ field, Jonathan Gould to create a new model…the Jensen GT…. to bridge the gap between the last 1976 iterations and the forthcoming more radical, state of the art gran turismo slated for 2016.
As this new Jensen is to be hand built in limited numbers, Jensen International Automotive Ltd in Banbury (well known for its highly acclaimed modified R models), is integral in developing and producing the GT.
The specification combines new parts as used for the Interceptor R, the Jensen SV8 and other makes, with unique elements blending modern and traditional materials, design & manufacturing techniques.
At this stage only the following, broad level of specification can be revealed;
Format – Front mid engine, 2 door with separate boot
Body shell – Modern version of Superleggera construction using N/C machined aluminium ribs profiled to body contour to which lightweight exterior panels in Composites & aluminium are bonded; doors are steel
Centre section, bulkheads & roof – Semi structural Carbon fibre/foam sandwich construction moulded using RTM process. Bonded to form assembly
with Steel backbone type space-frame connecting with SV8 derived rear cradle and cast aluminium front structureSuspension, Brakes & Steering – SV8 derived front & rear; fully independent double wishbone with anti roll bars incorporating aluminium members & uprights. Brakes AP – Road Fr 350mm Rr 300mm discs & multi piston calipers
Powertrain – GM based aluminium 6.4 litre Supercharged V8, direct
injection, VVTi with DoD capability and dry sump lubricationSix speed semi-automatic transmission to rear wheel drive
or optional Six speed manual gearbox to rear wheel driveAdjustable electronic traction control on all options
Interior trim – leather & alcantara with range of bespoke options. Interceptor R inspired dashboard & controls, +2 rear seating or optional upholstered area
Brightwork – all in metal
Front Grille – ECU controlled variable opening for engine cooling
Glazing – Direct bonded windscreen & rear window with integral heating, pillar-less side glass
Lighting – new front and rear light clusters with LED technology
Wheels – Forged aluminium single piece
Front 19” x 8” Rear 19” x 10”Overall weight estimation – 1530 Kg
Power output – 665 bhp Torque – 630 lb/ft
Please note;
The Jensen GT is a registered design and all images are copyright
