Lot details
Registration No: 1218 WD
Chassis No: 104 - 2015
Mot Expiry: Sept 2003.

Even with GRP bodywork and 4-litre Austin 6-cylinder engine underbonnet, the Jensen 541 and the Dunlop disc-braked 541R with twin exhausts and Laycock de Normanville overdrive were deemed to be not powerful enough for the early 1960s luxury GT consumers. The answer, the West Bromwich manufacturers thought, would be the 1962 CV8, which employed a beefed-up 541 chassis, again with GRP bodywork - though with doors skinned in aluminium and an extremely unusual slant-eyed headlamp arrangement. The MkI version was powered by the 5910cc Chrysler US V8, a MkII in October 1963 with the even more potent 6276cc V8 fitted a few months later. The founding Jensen brothers Alan and Richard were still with the company at this time.
The 1963-manufactured CV8 MkI being auctioned here, one of only 65 MkIs built, has been owned by the Derbyshire vendor for the past 23 years, the personalised 1218 WD registration stays with the car. The Indigo Blue paintwork is in excellent condition, he says, and the original interior in red and carpets are both good. The 6276cc 8-cylinder Chrysler engine has been the subject of a bottom end rebuild, which has included renewing the crankshaft, big ends, main bearings, as well as timing chain and sprockets, and oil pump. Starter motor, alternator, rear bumper and rear springs have all been renewed. The overall condition of this Midland-made sports saloon, he says, is good.
Please Note: The estimate on this vehicle was changed further to its examination upon arrival.