BACK in the 1960s and 70s the Jensen Interceptor was one of the top prestige cars to own.
It was hunky, slick, fast and iconic with the added bonus that its individual looks ensured that it could not be confused with anything else on the road.
Launched in 1966 the Interceptor sported Italian styling by Carrozzeria Touring and a whopping American engine by Chrysler that eventually became 7.2-litres.
But financial troubles led to the firm's bankruptcy in 1976 and the Interceptor reluctantly drove into the history books.
That is until now, because it has reversed out of the dusty pages and is being recreated to be a star of the road in 2011 by a new company.
Deliveries of the new Jensen Interceptor R have started at Oxfordshire-based manufacturer and restorer Jensen International Automotive (JIA), which set up business in May last year.
The Jensen Interceptor R is JIA’s modern interpretation of the much loved British classic.
Each Interceptor R is hand-built from an original donor car, refurbished and treated to modern specifications, boasting a GM Corvette LS3 V8 engine, independent rear suspension, brand-new transmission and braking systems and a luxurious new interior.
Jensen International Automotive has the financial backing and know-how of Carphone Warehouse’s founder and chairman Charles Dunstone, who joined its board of directors earlier last year.
Tony Banham, JIA’s Managing Director claims the firm's current production facilities are capable of achieving quality levels completely unattainable only a couple of years ago.
They feel that have managed to produce a modern Jensen without compromising on its spirit or heritage.
The new Jensen Interceptor R, powered by a 6.2 V8 producing 429bhp, can reach a top speed of 160mph and hit 0-60mph in less than 4.5 seconds – faster than the original. Prices start from £105,000 with a five-month building schedule.
This is yet another step in an interesting trend which is seeing important historic and classic cars being revived for discerning clients. Red Triangle is already producing recreated Alvis cars and a similar exercise is being carried out by another company with the with the Allard sports car.
It will certainly be interesting to see what is is going to pop up next. But due to the sky-high prices these dream revivals command, for me it really is a case of 'dream on.'