…not really. This uncommon black coupe, another rare find by r0b0tr10t, doesn’t enjoy quite the reputation one might expect of a Jensen, owing to what are widely perceived to be bizarre looks. In fact, some sources cite values as having dropped since reaching a high point about twenty years ago. We’ll let you guys judge, but with its dark fiberglass and aluminum bodywork in such splendid condition, one could be forgiven if they spent the going rate of $25-$30,000 to own this car today.
In production from 1962 until 1966, the CV8 was a refinement of the 1955 Jensen 541 and sat on the same 105 inch wheelbase. Presumably named for its new engine, the CV8 traded Austin straight-six engines for Chrysler Golden Commando V8 power (that’s the “Wedgehead” B-block) in 361 and later, 383 cubic inches displacements. That made the car, aerodynamic for the era, a genuine 130 mile-per-hour proposition.
Even better, with its combination of a Torqueflite transmission and adjustable rear dampers (Mk II and Mk III), it brought genuine comfort to the equation. If anyone did find its looks bizarre, that sort of capability was ample compensation (provided they could afford the car). Indeed, the new car was more popular than its predecessors, selling 500 units over four years (more than double what the earlier 541, 541 R and 541 S could manage).
To complement its relaxed nature, the body was stretched into a more distinct three-box shape and the rear view is quite flattering. As if to emphasize the point, this CV8’s owner has fitted the car with distinctive tailpipes whose sound must turn a lot of heads in its current German home. After all, being noticed is half the fun.
Related reading: Curbside Classic: Jensen Interceptor – The Anglo-Italo-American Mashup
The Jensen is nice. Could be continued with other Jensen types!? On the other hand it should be quite interesting if somebody would place an article about another British classic icon the Bristol… Just an idea…
+1 on Bristols
+2 on Bristols.
+3 on Bristols.
+4 on Bristols
You can tell by the look on its face that within this English sports car beats the heart of a 62 Chrysler.
I have always liked Jensens, in no small parts due to the Mopar mechanicals. I would take this car home in a moment.
Long time fan of Euro American exotica.Not as nice looking as a Bristol or Facel Vega but still a good looker.KK Downing Judas Priest guitarist has one
And ‘The Baron’ drove one. Nice find, but ugly car.
” In fact, some sources cite values as having dropped since reaching a high point about twenty years ago.”
Which would be fully expected as I pointed out in the discussion of what is a collectable car. 20 years ago would have been when the vehicle was 30 years old, in other words when a person who lusted after one as a teen would now have the means to purchase one as a toy. Once those people had one and the novelty wore off the values started to drop.
The fact that it is rather bizarre looking really pigeon holes it as only collectable to those that lust after them when they were new and the person was in their impressionable teen years.
Its different looking but beauty is in the eye of the beholder, I like it. The previous model had the 4L six from an Austin truck, this one is improved with Mopar V8 which helps.
Jaguar in the back, Citroen in the front. Party!
Some Gypsies drove one the Minder episode, “The Car Lot Baggers”
There is one out here that has been a regular in tarmac rallies for many years.
They are an individual look to say the least but I like them. Then again I also like the Daimler SP250/Dart too.
we once rented an interceptor for the weekend. Or rather two as the ignition barrel in the first one, a 69 6.3L, broke outside a restaurant. The second one was a 74 7.2L and it sounded fantastic and drove OK, but didn’t seem as fast as the 69. It basically converted petrol into noise and fumes, a bi product of which was some forward motion. I’d love to have one though!
A friend of mine spent many years restoring a CV8 He told me that the front bumper was two Ford Anglia ones either welded or soldered together. Useless fact of the day. The Ford parts bin also donated overriders from the Mk 2 Zodiac for ’60s Aston Martin bumpers. I know, I must get out more.
Yes, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and it’s not for everyone. However, to my eye, it’s absolutely beautiful. I already have a thing for canted headlamp treatments, and applied to a sports car like this the look is both unique and stunning. And with a Chrysler V8? I’d take one in a minute. Good luck finding one of course, especially in this country. But I definitely appreciate the stylists’ efforts!