1973 Jensen Healey review from North America

Relatively little. Fuel pump and a bad electrical connection.

In October 2005 I bought my THIRD Jensen Healey, so I guess that answers the question “Would I buy another?”

My favorite is the red 1973 I call Candy. Yes, sweet she is. I have had no major problems with her… just minor ones that happened at inopportune times.

The cars generally had problems with (at the time) hybrid and untried, Double Over Head Cam (DOHC) Lotus 907 engine. With only 4 cylinders they delivered and impressive 120-130 BHP at 6000 RPM. The rack and pinion steering and a low slung suspension make them handle very well. They love windy mountain roads almost as much as I do when behind the wheel.

Only 10,000 were built during it’s 3 year run (in comparison, twice as many 2005 Mustangs were sold the first DAY of sales!) they were prone to rust and engine troubles, and with the company in financial ruin, the Jensen Motor company closed in 1996.

In my opinion this is a vastly undervalued car. Performance and styling unsurpassed for the vintage. With very few left on the road – power and sporty convertible looks - it should have a resale price tag equaling its cousin the Austin Healey 3000. Unfortunately it does not.

Many readers might not know what they look like… You can see mine at http://home.earthlink.net/~jensenhealey/ or at the Jensen Healey Preservation Society http://www.jensenhealey.com/

So, if you can find one running and relatively rust free, buy it. You will be in for the ride of your life!