Jensen CV8 Mark III
The Jensen CV8, introduced in 1962 and continuing through 1966, represented Jensen's first serious attempt at building a luxury grand tourer with American V8 power. The body, designed in-house by Eric Neale, featured distinctive curved lines with a prominent grille and quad headlights that gave it an aggressive, purposeful appearance. 'CV8' stood for 'Chrysler V8' - the engine that transformed Jensen from a small coachbuilder into a performance car manufacturer. Early models used the 5.9-liter (361 cubic inch) V8, while later Mark II and III versions received the larger 6.3-liter (383 cubic inch) unit producing 330 horsepower. The fiberglass body was hand-laid over a tubular steel chassis, keeping weight down to around 1,590kg. Inside, occupants enjoyed luxurious appointments including leather seats, walnut dashboard, and comprehensive instrumentation. The Mark III, introduced in 1965, featured revised styling with a cleaner roofline and improved interior. Despite its impressive performance and build quality, the CV8 sold in modest numbers as Jensen was a tiny manufacturer competing against established marques.
The CV8 is rarer and often more affordable than the later Interceptor, representing a value opportunity. Inspect chassis meticulously for rust - this is the critical issue. Check fiberglass body for cracks, crazing, and delamination. Engine condition important but Chrysler V8s are robust - listen for unusual noises. Verify all electrical systems function as troubleshooting can be complex. Original interior trim difficult to replace - leather and wood condition important. Documented history adds significant value as so few were built. Join Jensen Owners Club for support. Parts sharing with Interceptor limited but Chrysler mechanicals well supported. Budget for specialist maintenance. Values rising as collectors recognize rarity.