This 1973 Jensen-Healey ticks many of the boxes that potential buyers consider essential when seeking a classic British sports car. It is a one-owner vehicle that has spent its life in favorable climates. That has allowed it to avoid any rust issues that can be common with the little Jensen, while the fact that it is a turnkey proposition means the winning bidder can enjoy it immediately. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Jensen listed here on eBay in Phoenix, Arizona. Bidding currently sits at $3,550, and if you’re not already sorely tempted, the seller’s decision to list this gem with No Reserve may make it irresistible.
When production of the Austin-Healey 3000 ended in 1967, Jensen Motors found itself at a bit of a loose end. It has produced the bodies for the “3000,” but with excess factory capacity, it entered talks with Donald Healey for a new joint-venture sports car. American business executive Kjell Qvale entered the picture, becoming Jensen’s major shareholder. Donald Healey became Chairman, and development of the Jensen-Healey commenced using a design penned by Hugo Poole and William Towns. Launched in 1972, the Jensen-Healey was widely anticipated by both customers and the motoring press. Sadly, early quality-control issues damaged the badge’s reputation and, when combined with other factors, created a perfect storm. Production ended in 1976, when the company faced bankruptcy. Our feature car left the West Bromwich factory in 1973 and has spent its life in Colorado and Arizona. Both states feature climates that are excellent for preserving classic steel, making the rust-free status of this garage-kept classic unsurprising. The seller, who has been its custodian since Day One, states that they had the car repainted in its original Green Metallic. Otherwise, potential buyers should consider it a survivor. It presents extremely well, with no significant paint or panel imperfections. The soft-top looks a little saggy and baggy, although it would be interesting to discover whether leaving it raised in the sun for a while would improve its appearance enough to make replacement unnecessary. The trim is in good condition, and the glass is clear.
Jensen considered several options when selecting an engine for its latest offering. After failing to source engines from Ford, Vauxhall, and BMW, Colin Chapman entered the picture. He struck a deal to supply his 1,973cc “Lotus 907” four-cylinder motor, which proved to be an excellent alternative. The 16-valve twin-cam produced an official 140hp and 130 ft/lbs of torque, which was sent to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. The power and torque figures may sound modest by modern standards, but with a curb weight of approximately 2,100 lbs, the company claimed this little Healey could cover the ΒΌ-mile in 16.2 seconds on its way to 120mph. The seller has been this car’s custodian since Day One, claiming that it has a genuine 60,000 miles on the clock. It has been meticulously maintained, and with a significant collection of documentation, its Service Records may provide evidence verifying the mileage claim. The Vehicle is a turnkey proposition that runs and drives extremely well. It is ready for fine-weather cruising with the winning bidder behind the wheel.
As with the exterior, this Jensen’s interior makes a positive first impression. It is unclear what may be hiding beneath the dash cover, because pads could crack due to long-term UV exposure. It would be worth asking the seller the question about the pad. Replacements are available if that is the case, and are affordable and easy to install. The Black vinyl looks excellent, with only a tiny, repairable hole on the outer edge of the driver’s seat backrest. The woodgrain isn’t faded, and the carpet is clean. The Jensen-Healey didn’t feature many creature comforts, although this car retains its factory radio.
This 1973 Jensen-Healey has generated significant interest since hitting the market, and it’s easy to see why. It presents extremely well for a survivor of this vintage and has avoided the rust issues that often plague these classics. Its known ownership history and extensive documentation help its cause enormously, making the bid tally of eighteen unsurprising. Values tend to vary widely, but recent successful sales suggest the bidding probably won’t climb far beyond $7,000. However, the auction action has been spirited, meaning all bets are off, and the sale price could be higher. If a classic British sports car has been on your radar, could this sweet little Jensen-Healey be a contender?
Leave A Comment