1965 Jensen CV8 Drophead Coupé Prototype
Only one factory-built convertible was produced during Jensen’s C-V8 run of approximately 500 cars, making this prototype extraordinarily rare.
Built on an experimental chassis extended by nine inches, this unique drophead coupé was completed in June 1965 and sold new to Lord Carrington, who would later become the UK Foreign Secretary.
This sophisticated grand tourer featured a distinctive fiberglass body with aluminum door skins mounted on a substantial twin-tube frame. Performance was impressive for the era, with a top speed of 136 mph (219 km/h) and 0–62 mph (100 km/h) acceleration in just 6.7 seconds (outpacing many contemporary European sports cars).
During Lord Carrington’s ownership, the convertible underwent extensive factory testing and development, including the installation of the improved MK III braking system.
This historically significant Jensen offers a fascinating glimpse into what might have been, had the company pursued convertible production beyond this singular prototype.
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