Jensen CV8

Richard and Alan Jensen began as coachbuilders, producing attractive bodies on various chassis available from British manufacturers, but went into production of their own cars in 1935. Their 1940s and 1950s cars were large and used some of the biggest British engines of the time, typically Austin straight-six 244ci (4-liter) units. Their range turned more sporty from 1952 with the 541, very similar in looks to this CV8 which appeared 10 years later. The slanted headlights provoked love 'em or hate 'em reactions, but what won many fans was the use of a new 360ci (5.9-liter) V8 engine from Chrysler. With the CV8 having a lightweight glass-fibre body, the motor gave tremendous performance. The chassis comprised two main large tubes which ran front to rear, with Austin-derived front wishbones and a limited-slip differential equipped live axle which hung on leaf springs.

Jensen CV8 Specifications