Jensen Healey (1972-76)

COMMON FAULTS

Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The Jensen-Healey, like many classic cars, has a few common faults that owners and enthusiasts should be aware of: 

1. **Oil Leaks**: Early models, especially the Mk1, were notorious for oil leaks due to low-quality cam gaskets and other sealing issues - Auto Express](https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/classic-cars/104986/jensen-healey-buying-guide-and-review-1972-1976). 

2. **Cooling System**: The water pump can fail, leading to overheating problems - Auto Express](https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/classic-cars/104986/jensen-healey-buying-guide-and-review-1972-1976). 

3. **Electrical Issues**: The electrical systems can cause problems due to age and wear. 

4. **Rust**: The body and chassis are prone to rust, particularly in areas with poor rust protection. 

5. **Fuel Leaks**: Leaky fuel lines were a common issue, especially in the early models - Auto Express](https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/classic-cars/104986/jensen-healey-buying-guide-and-review-1972-1976). Regular maintenance and careful inspection can help keep the Jensen-Healey in good running condition. 

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Generations/Trim Levels 

The Jensen-Healey had **one main generation** during its production run from 1972 to 1976. However, within this period, there were some updates and variations, such as the introduction of the MkII model in 1973, which featured improvements and refinements over the original MkI. 

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Designer/Dimensions

The **Jensen Healey** (1972–1976) was designed by **William Towns**, with contributions from **Donald Healey** and his son **Geoffrey Healey**. The car was developed as a successor to the **Austin-Healey 3000**, blending **British roadster styling** with **Lotus-engine performance**.

**Dimensions of the Jensen Healey**

- **Wheelbase:** 92 in (2,337 mm)  

- **Length:** 162 in (4,115 mm)  

- **Width:** 63 in (1,600 mm)  

- **Height:** 48 in (1,219 mm)  

- **Kerb Weight:** ~2,408 lb (1,092 kg)  

Its lightweight chassis and Lotus 907 engine made it a nimble and quick roadster, competing with the Triumph TR6 and Lotus Elan Sprint. 

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Production Total

The Jensen Healey (1972–1976) had a total production run of 10,503 units. This includes both the **Mk I** and **Mk II** versions. Additionally, the **Jensen GT**, a shooting brake variant introduced in 1975, saw only 511 units built before production ended. 

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Price New

The **Jensen Healey** was launched in **1972** with a starting price of approximately **£2,500** in the UK. This positioned it competitively against other British sports cars like the **Triumph TR6** and **Lotus Elan Sprint**. 

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Sales

The Jensen Healey (1972–1976) had mixed commercial success. While it was praised for its Lotus-engine performance and handling, it faced reliability issues that affected its reputation. 

**Sales Overview**

- **Total Production:** **10,503 units**  

- **UK Sales:** **Around 2,020 units**  

- **US Market Focus:** The majority of sales were in the **United States**, where safety regulations influenced design changes.  

- **Jensen GT Variant:** Introduced in **1975**, but only **511 units** were built before production ended.  

Despite its strong performance, the Healey never achieved the popularity of rivals like the Triumph TR6 or MG B, leading to Jensen Motors' financial struggles. Today, it remains a cult classic, appreciated for its rarity and driving experience - Auto Express](https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/classic-cars/104986/jensen-healey-buying-guide-and-review-1972-1976). 

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Historical Pricing Comparisons

The **Jensen Healey** (1972–1976) has seen fluctuating values over time, influenced by **market trends, rarity, and collector demand**. Here’s a historical pricing comparison:

**Historical Pricing Comparison**

- **1972 New Price:** ~£2,500  

- **Modern Equivalent (2025 Inflation):** ~£34,800  

- **Recent Auction Prices:**  

  - **Lowest recorded sale:** ~£575  

  - **Median price:** ~£8,959  

  - **Highest recorded sale:** ~£23,625  

Classic car values depend on **condition, provenance, and market demand**, so individual Jensen Healeys may sell for more or less than these figures. 

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Main Rivals

In 1972–1976, the Jensen Healey competed with several British and international sports cars. Here’s a look at their approximate new prices in the UK at the time:

New Prices of Jensen Healey’s Main Rivals (1972–1976)

| Model | Year | Approx. UK Price (£) |

|-------|------|----------------------|

| **Jensen Healey** | 1972 | ~£2,500 |

| **Triumph TR6** | 1972 | ~£1,850 |

| **MG B GT V8** | 1973 | ~£2,300 |

| **Lotus Elan Sprint** | 1973 | ~£2,450 |

| **Datsun 240Z** | 1973 | ~£2,200 |

| **Porsche 914** | 1973 | ~£2,800 |

The Jensen Healey was priced competitively against the Lotus Elan Sprint and Porsche 914, offering Lotus-engine performance at a relatively affordable cost.

The Jensen Healey (1972–1976) competed with several British and international sports cars, each offering distinct performance characteristics. Here’s how its main rivals compared:

Performance Comparison

| Model | Engine | Power | 0-60 mph | Top Speed |

|-------|--------|-------|---------|-----------|

| **Jensen Healey** | 2.0L Lotus 907 Inline-4 | ~144 hp | ~8.1 sec | ~119 mph |

| **Triumph TR6** | 2.5L Inline-6 | ~150 hp | ~8.2 sec | ~119 mph |

| **MG B GT V8** | 3.5L Rover V8 | ~137 hp | ~7.7 sec | ~125 mph |

| **Lotus Elan Sprint** | 1.6L Inline-4 | ~126 hp | ~6.2 sec | ~121 mph |

| **Datsun 240Z** | 2.4L Inline-6 | ~151 hp | ~8.0 sec | ~125 mph |

| **Porsche 914 2.0** | 2.0L Boxer-4 | ~100 hp | ~9.1 sec | ~119 mph |

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Engine/s 

The Jensen-Healey was equipped with a single engine option throughout its production run: - **Engine**: 2.0-liter Lotus 907 I4 - **Power**: 140 bhp (104 kW) at 6500 rpm - **Torque**: 129 lb-ft (176 Nm) at 6500 rpm This engine was notable for being the first modern dual overhead cam, 16-valve engine to be mass-produced on an assembly line. 

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Performance 

The Jensen-Healey was known for its spirited performance, thanks to its Lotus 907 engine. Here are the key performance specifications: - **Engine**: 2.0-liter Lotus 907 I4 - **Power**: 140 bhp (104 kW) at 6500 rpm - **Torque**: 129 lb-ft (176 Nm) at 6500 rpm - **Top Speed**: Approximately 119 mph (192 km/h) - **0-60 mph (0-96 km/h)**: Around 7.8 seconds These specifications made the Jensen-Healey a competitive sports car in its era, offering a blend of performance and driving pleasure. 

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Historical Advertisements & Marketing Strategy

The **Jensen Healey** (1972–1976) was marketed as a **modern British sports car**, blending **Lotus-engine performance** with **affordable pricing**. Its advertising and marketing strategy focused on **speed, handling, and heritage**, aiming to attract **young professionals and enthusiasts**.

**Marketing Strategy**

- **Performance-Oriented Messaging** – Ads emphasized its **Lotus 907 engine**, highlighting its **twin-cam, 16-valve technology**.

- **Affordable Alternative** – Positioned as a **cost-effective rival** to the **Triumph TR6** and **Jaguar E-Type**.

- **Austin-Healey Legacy** – Leveraged the **Healey name** to appeal to fans of the **Austin-Healey 3000**.

- **US Market Focus** – Many ads targeted **American buyers**, where safety regulations influenced design changes.

**Historical Advertisements**

- **Magazine Ads** – Featured slogans like *"The Jensen Healey: A True British Sports Car"*, showcasing its **sleek styling and performance**.

- **Brochures & Dealer Promotions** – Highlighted its **handling, acceleration, and racing pedigree**.

- **Motorsport Influence** – Used **club racing success** to reinforce its **sporting credentials**.

Despite its **strong marketing push**, reliability issues affected its reputation, but today it remains a **cult classic** among collectors. 

You can also explore more details [here](https://www.classicandsportscar.com/features/jensen-healey-righting-wrongs-history).

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Rarity & Collector Appeal

The **Jensen Healey** (1972–1976) is a **relatively rare** classic sports car, with only **10,503 units** produced globally. While it wasn’t a massive commercial success, its **Lotus-engine performance** and **British roadster heritage** have made it a **cult classic** among collectors.

**Rarity**

- **Limited Production** – Compared to mainstream British roadsters like the **MG B** or **Triumph TR6**, the Jensen Healey had a much smaller production run.

- **Jensen GT Variant** – The **shooting brake-style Jensen GT** (1975–1976) is even rarer, with only **511 units** built.

- **Surviving Numbers** – Many Healeys were exported to the **US**, and only a fraction remain in **roadworthy condition** today.

**Collector Appeal**

- **Lotus 907 Engine** – The **2.0L twin-cam engine** was cutting-edge at the time, making the Healey a **high-performance roadster**.

- **Affordable Classic** – Despite its rarity, the Healey remains **relatively inexpensive** compared to other British sports cars of its era.

- **Restoration Potential** – Many examples require **careful restoration**, but well-maintained models are **increasingly sought after** - Auto Express](https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/classic-cars/104986/jensen-healey-buying-guide-and-review-1972-1976).

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Recorded in UK 2025

As of 2025, there are approximately 264 Jensen Healey cars licensed in the UK, with an additional 185 registered as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). This makes it a relatively rare classic, but still one of the more accessible Jensen models compared to the ultra-rare Jensen CV-8 GT, which has only 9 recorded examples. 

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Target Age Group

The **Jensen Healey** (1972–1976) was designed to appeal to **young professionals and sports car enthusiasts** who wanted a **stylish, high-performance roadster** without the high price tag of an Aston Martin or Jaguar. 

**Target Age Group Influence**

- **20s–40s Buyers** – The Healey was positioned as an **affordable yet exciting sports car**, making it attractive to younger drivers.

- **Weekend Racers & Enthusiasts** – Many owners were drawn to its **Lotus-engine performance**, using it for spirited driving and club racing.

- **Austin-Healey Fans** – It was marketed as a **successor to the Austin-Healey 3000**, appealing to those who wanted a modern alternative.

Despite its **strong performance and handling**, reliability issues affected its reputation, but today it remains a cult classic among collectors and vintage car enthusiasts. 

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Influence of Target Age Group

The target age group for the Jensen Healey (1972–1976) significantly influenced its marketing strategy, design, and positioning in the sports car market.

**Influence on Marketing & Design**

- **Young Professionals & Enthusiasts (20s–40s)** – The Healey was aimed at buyers seeking an **affordable yet high-performance roadster**, making it a strong alternative to the **Triumph TR6** and **Jaguar E-Type**.

- **Weekend Racers & Driving Purists** – Its **Lotus 907 engine** and **lightweight chassis** appealed to those who valued **spirited driving and club racing**.

- **Austin-Healey Legacy Buyers** – Positioned as a **successor to the Austin-Healey 3000**, it attracted loyal fans looking for a **modern alternative** - Auto Express](https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/classic-cars/104986/jensen-healey-buying-guide-and-review-1972-1976).

- **US Market Focus** – A large portion of sales targeted **American buyers**, leading to design modifications such as **larger bumpers** to meet US safety regulations.

Despite its **strong performance and handling**, reliability issues affected its reputation, but today it remains a cult classic among collectors and vintage car enthusiasts. 

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Parts Bin Engineering

The Jensen Healey (1972–1976) was built using components from several manufacturers, blending British craftsmanship with international engineering. Here are some key suppliers:

- **Lotus** – Provided the **2.0L Lotus 907 engine**, a **16-valve, twin-cam unit** that was also used in the **Lotus Esprit**.

- **Getrag** – Supplied the **four-speed and five-speed manual transmissions**, ensuring smooth power delivery.

- **Pietro Frua** – Designed the **bodywork**, giving the Healey its sleek, modern styling.

- **Vauxhall** – Some suspension components were sourced from **Vauxhall models**, contributing to the car’s handling.

- **Lucas** – Provided **electrical components**, including ignition systems and lighting.

The Jensen Healey was intended as a successor to the Austin-Healey, but despite its advanced engineering, it struggled commercially. Today, it’s a cult classic, appreciated for its performance and rarity. 

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Spares/Specialists NI 

Finding spares for a Jensen Healey can be challenging due to its rarity, but here are a few places in the UK where you might be able to locate parts: 

1. **[Martin Robey](https://www.martinrobey.com/jensen)**: They specialize in manufacturing and supplying parts for Jensen cars, including the FF. 

2. **[Jensen Service Ltd](https://www.ebay.co.uk/str/jensenserviceltd)**: They offer a wide range of parts for Jensen models and have an online store. 

3. **[Appleyard Parts](https://jensen.co.uk)**: They have access to a wide selection of spare parts for the Jensen Healey. 

For specialist garage services in Northern Ireland, here are a few options: 

1. **[Burnside Garage Ltd](https://www.thomsonlocal.com/search/garage-services/northern-ireland)**: Located in Coleraine, they are known for their expertise with high-end and classic cars. 

2. **[McMillan Specialist Cars](https://www.thomsonlocal.com/search/garage-services/northern-ireland)**: Based in Antrim, they offer comprehensive service and repair for a variety of vehicles, including classic cars. 

3. **[Stephen Groves Jaguar Specialist](https://www.thomsonlocal.com/search/garage-services/northern-ireland)**: While they specialize in Jaguars, they have extensive experience with classic cars and might be able to help with your Jensen Healey 

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Racing 

The Jensen-Healey did compete in racing and had a notable presence in motorsport. It was particularly successful in the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) D Production Championship. The Jensen-Healey won the SCCA D Production Championship in its first year of racing in 1973 and went on to capture five of these championships in total. This success highlighted the car's performance capabilities and solidified its reputation in the racing community. 

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Valuation 

The value of a Jensen-Healey today can vary based on its condition and provenance. Here are some general price ranges: - **Project Cars**: Starting around £575. - **Average Condition**: Approximately £8,959. - **Excellent Condition**: Up to £23,625. 

These values can fluctuate based on market demand and the specific condition of the car. 

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Clubs

There isn’t a dedicated **Jensen Owners Club** specifically for **Northern Ireland**, but you can connect with enthusiasts through the **Jensen Owners' Club (JOC)**, which has members across the UK and Ireland. 

**Jensen Owners' Club (JOC)**

- **Website:** [JOC Official Site](https://treasuredcars.com/clubs/details/jensen-owners_30)  

- **Local Chapters:** The JOC has **regional groups** that organize events and meet-ups, including in Ireland.  

- **Forum & Events:** Members can access **technical advice, restoration tips, and classic car gatherings**.  

You might also find classic car clubs in Northern Ireland that welcome Jensen owners, such as general historic vehicle clubs.

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