- Car with Merlin Engine
- Introduction
- The Jensen Interceptor
- The Interceptor FF was a critical and commercial success. Jensen built just 320 examples of the car, and today it is a highly sought-after collector’s item.
- The Merlin engine was a remarkable piece of engineering, and it is a testament to its versatility that it could be used in both aircraft and cars. The Jensen Interceptor FF is a unique and fascinating car that is a true piece of automotive history.
- Specifications
- Conclusion
Car with Merlin Engine
Introduction
The Merlin engine is a legendary aircraft engine that powered some of the most iconic aircraft of World War II, including the P-51 Mustang and the Spitfire. It was also used in a number of postwar aircraft, including the de Havilland Vampire and the Percival Pembroke. However, few people know that the Merlin engine was also used in a car.
The Jensen Interceptor
In 1966, British car manufacturer Jensen Motors introduced the Interceptor, a high-performance grand tourer. The Interceptor was powered by a variety of engines, including a 6.3-liter V8 from Chrysler. However, in 1971, Jensen introduced a limited-edition version of the Interceptor called the FF, which was powered by a 5.7-liter Merlin engine.
The Merlin engine in the Interceptor FF was not the same as the Merlin engine that powered the P-51 Mustang. The Interceptor FF’s Merlin engine was a detuned version of the aircraft engine, with a lower compression ratio and a different camshaft. However, it still produced an impressive 335 horsepower, which was more than enough to give the Interceptor FF a top speed of 155 mph.
The Interceptor FF was a critical and commercial success. Jensen built just 320 examples of the car, and today it is a highly sought-after collector’s item.
The Merlin engine was a remarkable piece of engineering, and it is a testament to its versatility that it could be used in both aircraft and cars. The Jensen Interceptor FF is a unique and fascinating car that is a true piece of automotive history.
Specifications
* Engine: 5.7-liter Merlin V12
* Horsepower: 335 hp
* Torque: 360 lb-ft
* Top speed: 155 mph
* 0-60 mph: 6.5 seconds
* Weight: 3,400 lbs
Conclusion
The Jensen Interceptor FF is a true legend of the automotive world. It is a car that is both beautiful and powerful, and it is a testament to the versatility of the Merlin engine. If you are ever lucky enough to see one in person, be sure to take a moment to appreciate its beauty and its history.