1964 Jensen C-V8 Mark II Convertible

• Independently created one-off convertible
• Shortened wheelbase
• Automatic transmission
• Recently completed restoration
• Only some 1,000 miles covered since completion

Although Jensen had favoured Ford and Nash engines in pre-war days, during the 1950s the company was closely associated with Austin, using the latter's 4.0-litre six-cylinder engine in its Interceptor and 541 models, the latter pioneering the use of glass fibre bodywork. However, by the late 1950s the need to offer automatic transmission in luxury cars, even those of sporting character, signalled the end of Jensen's reliance on the Austin six. The latter being deemed insufficiently powerful, Jensen turned to Chrysler's 5.9-litre V8, which came with the admirable Torque-Flite automatic gearbox as standard. This engine/transmission package debuted in the all-new glass fibre-bodied C-V8 in October 1962, and while the car's highly individual styling was not to everyone's taste there were no complaints about its performance. According to The Motor, the C-V8's 136mph maximum speed and outstanding acceleration made it "one of the fastest cars we have ever tested, and the fastest full four-seater". The model was revised through Mark II and III versions, Chrysler's 6.3-litre V8 becoming standard part way through Mark II production.

The vendor won this unique Jensen C-V8 convertible via BBC Children In Need in November 2025 having purchased a £10 ticket. The Jensen was delivered to her the following February, but despite the chassis being shortened she cannot reach the pedals with ease and feels obliged to sell the car.

This C-V8 convertible was built by an automotive enthusiast, who wanted a project to tackle after selling his successful brassware fabrication business. Well known Jensen specialist/dealer Andrew Cassar sourced the car for him circa 2010 in total 'project' condition, and he was going to restore it to original specification but Andrew Cassar suggested the creation of a convertible. A bare-chassis rebuild was commenced, which would take some 12 years to complete.

The gentleman did most of the work himself, shortening the chassis and altering the bodywork, as well as rebuilding the shock absorbers, radiator, brake calipers, etc. Components renewed include the springs, carburettor, wiring loom, leather upholstery, carpets and hood. Specialists were enlisted to rebuild the engine and transmission; the former being entrusted to Specialised Engine Services (Essex) and the latter to Suffolk Transmissions. The car was repainted in Jaguar British Racing Green and fitted with a Mark 3 walnut dashboard and a set of 16" steel wheels. Only some 1,000 post-completion miles had been covered by the time of BBC Children In Need 2025. The vendor has been advised that the fuel gauge is faulty by the storage company that delivered the car to her.

The car is offered with a document file, a transmission workshop manual and an original 1964 Jensen brochure.