1968 Jensen FF MkI Coupé
Registration no. BTU 16F
Chassis no. 119/022

Star of the 1966 London Motor Show, the Interceptor-based Jensen FF represented one of the first successful attempts to produce a four-wheel-drive passenger car. 'FF' stood for 'Ferguson Formula', a four-wheel drive system developed by the Harry Ferguson Research Company, which was also responsible for adapting the FF's Dunlop Maxaret anti-lock braking system for automotive use. The FF debuted alongside the new Interceptor and both models used the same basic chassis, running gear, and 6,276cc Chrysler V8 engine inherited from the preceding C-V8. With 325bhp (SAE) and 425lb/ft of torque on tap, performance was more than adequate, The Motor recording a top speed of 140mph with 100mph arriving in 19 seconds. Leather upholstery, reclining front seats and walnut veneer were all standard features, while automatic transmission was the choice of almost all buyers (it was the only option for the FF). In October 1969 a significant number of improvements heralded the arrival of the 'MkII'. The newcomer incorporated revised front suspension and Girling brakes (introduced on late MkIs) as well as a new front bumper and countless minor alterations. The main improvement though, was a completely redesigned interior featuring a new dashboard and seats. Mechanical changes to the FF kept abreast of those made to the Interceptor, but although the two models looked indistinguishable from a distance there were numerous subtle differences, the most obvious being the FF's twin side vents. Priced at 30% above the Interceptor, itself not a cheap car, the FF was the privilege of a wealthy few, and when production ceased in 1972 only 302 had been made, 193 of which were to MkI specification like that offered here.

First registered on 5th February 1968, this Jensen FF had been ordered by Lieutenant Colonel Richard Seifert, the famous architect responsible for designing London's Centrepoint tower block. In 1987, the car was purchased at auction by newspaper magnate, Eddie Shah, and remained in his collection until 1990. Its next owner was an Aston Martin collector, and the FF has clearly benefited from such enthusiast ownership. The current vendor purchased the Jensen at a UK auction in March 2015 and immediately despatched it to marque specialists Cropredy Bridge Motors for a full overhaul at a cost of circa £20,000 (bills on file).

Finished in Crystal Blue with dark blue leather trim, the car benefits from a full-length Webasto sunroof and is described by the private vendor as in good condition throughout. Offered with a V5C document, MoT to June 2019, and a substantial history file, this early Jensen FF is ready to be used and enjoyed.