Explore the Beauty of the 541S Jensen British Classic Car
There are some classic cars that make collectors go gaga. There are others that are highly underrated even when the reputation is not deserved. The 541S Jensen is one such overlooked gem. This unusual British model offered topnotch safety features, decent engine features and luxurious appointments, but it was overlooked by buyers when it first rolled off the line and continues to be passed over by collectors.
Sporty, fast, compact and adorable, the 541S Jensen is a two-door grand tourer that was completely hand built in an era when mass production was well under way. Its design is quite similar to Aston Martins, Porches and Jaguars in appearance, but it has a few claims to fame that are all its own. The 541S was the very first British car to boast seatbelts as standard. It also came with a number of other safety features, as well. This model was outfitted with a fire extinguisher, a first-aid kit, Dunlop disc brakes, a Motorola and even a padded windscreen surround.
While safety features were paramount with the 541S, this Jensen boasts a number of other unique design perks. The car has front seat arm rests that are adjustable. It also has a Bevelift jack that is meant to be used through the floor so the car can be lifted without a motorist being exposed to the elements.
The 541S Jensen was produced by Jensen Motors Limited, between 1960 and 1963. This sports car was predated by the Jensen 541R and followed up with the CV8. The 541S line had a total of 127 cars made with two engine types, a 5358 cc V8 produced by Chrysler and a 3993 cc straight-6. It came as either a four-speed automatic or a four-speed manual with overdrive. It is said only 22 manual drive transmissions rolled off the factory floor before production on the model ceased.
Although the 541S offered many things other makes and models did not, it gained a reputation of being a car that was slow to accelerate. While this might not seem like a big deal, it was for buyers of sports cars. Unfortunately, the manual version of the car was not used for testing. Owners today say the four-speed manual with overdrive offers more than enough in the zip department.
Jensen Motors operated with a headquarters in West Bromwich, England, from 1934 to 1976 when it went bankrupt. The company was known for its sports cars and commercial vehicles. While the 541S was not a hit with buyers, the company did have its share of standout vehicles during its multi-decade run. In addition to its own models, Jensen also collaborated with Austin-Healey and Volvo on a few vehicles. It was partially responsible for the Austin A40 and the Volvo P1800.
Classic car enthusiasts with an eye for the rare and unusual might find the unusual 541S Jensen is well worth another look. While the automatic transmission version of this model lacks in the pep department, the manual twin does not. Regardless, both versions are considered an unusual find in these days of mass production.
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