1958 Jensen 541R

Making its first appearance at the 1953 London Motor Show, the original Jensen 541 prototype featured an aluminium body, however, this was changed to glass fibre for production models.

Before long the new 541 had made a considerable impression on the motoring press, with rave reviews from ‘Autocare’ with a top speed of over 125 mph recorded on test, making the 541 the fastest four seater they had ever tested. The sleek styling was most attractive and rivalled a number of considerably more expensive offerings.

Power came courtesy of a 4 litre engine as used in the Austin Sheerline, whilst the front suspension was from the Austin A70. For 1957, the 541R was to feature rack and pinion steering and four wheel disc brakes. At this time the later ‘DS7’ version of the Sheeline engine was to supersede the earlier unit, now with twin SU carburettors and modified cylinder head, now with a power output of 150 bhp. Just 53 of the 541R were built with this engine. A total of 193 541R models were built before the replacement cam in the shape of the 541S in 1961.

This 541R was first registered on 18th July 1958. It has been in the care of the present owner for the past 24 years, having been part of a small collection. Well maintained over the years, it has a record of expenditure on file and has recently undergone renovations to the body and a quality repaint in Old English White. ~The roof section in finished in Connaught Green and appears to be original. There is an old RF60 buff logbook dating from 1958 and a copy of the Driver’s Handbook is provided.

The green leather interior trim has fared well and remains original, the car having been sparingly used during the present ownership.

 In all, this is a very genuine example of what is quite a rare GT motor car. It drives very well with the overdrive gearbox making for relaxed, long-legged cruising on longer runs.

For initial enquiries and to make your appointment to view please call us on 01420-474919 or 07710-364945