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Jensen International Automotive - Range Rover Chieftain Price: from £147,500
Last Updated On: 13/05/2021
Jensen International Automotive (JIA) have drawn on years of expertise in upgrading iconic British classics to evolve the classic Range Rover into something far beyond it’s original design brief.
Based on an original specification Range Rover item, the JIA re-engineered chassis incorporates the additional strength and modified mountings for their spectacular transformation of the running gear. Key to the transformation is replacement of the original outmoded live axles with our unique and innovative adjustable double wishbone suspension all round for vastly improved ride and roadholding.
Staying true to the concept of an American derived V8 engine, JIA turned to the excellent General Motors LS range of engines and complementary automatic transmissions to deliver reliability, improved fuel economy and a highly appropriate soundtrack, not to mention a power delivery to match the enhanced axles and braking. Power output from the 6.2 litre V8 is 430bhp giving 425lb/ft of torque. Performance figures are impressive for this re-engineered classic: 0-62mph (100km/h) is achieved in just 5.2 seconds with a speed topping out at 140mph (225km/h).
Inside, decades of low budget attempts to hide the utilitarian basis of the Range Rover have been swept away in a root and branch overhaul of the interior. Much as JIA have done with the Interceptor the feel of the original design has been carefully retained but materials are luxurious throughout and mod cons like in built sat nav, via a generous sized touchscreen, sit comfortably alongside bespoke switchgear such as would grace any modern yacht or supercar.
This, then, is the beginning of a new era for the classic Range Rover, like the Jensen Interceptor an icon of it’s time which, in standard form disappoints the modern driver but when re-engineered to this degree is elevated to supercar status whilst still keeping it’s cool…. just a little bit understated but devastatingly effective on the road!
