The UK’s first proper muscle car was built because of one key thing from America

While the muscle car is typically seen as a quintessentially American creation, the UK did produce a noteworthy one.

The Jensen Interceptor combined British style with American muscle, yet is often overlooked in discussions about icons of the era.

The car was in production for only a decade and is considered a collector’s item today.

But this piece of British automotive history was only made possible thanks to a key piece from the United States.

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Building the UK’s first muscle car

Although their heyday was the 1960s, a recent online debate proved that muscle cars appeal across the ages, from Boomers to Gen Zs alike.

When thinking of muscle cars, all-American names usually spring to mind.

From the Dodge Challenger, and the Ford Mustang, to the strange muscle car that looks like a jet.

But the UK threw its hat in the ring in the 1960s, producing the Jensen Interceptor.

With sleek styling, elegant interior, and power that wasn’t overly showy, the Jensen was decidedly British.

Its naturally aspirated V8 engine, however, set it firmly in the world of muscle cars.

The exterior of the Jensen carried the lines of a grand tourer, while the inside featured plush leather and wooden detailing.

Just 6,400 units were produced over a period of 10 years, after which a reduced interest in gas guzzlers and Jensen Motors’ financial issues meant the Interceptor was discontinued in 1976.

While in production, the car was fully UK-made, except for one crucial part.

How America helped make UK automotive history

The Interceptor was powered by a Chrysler V8 engine, which was produced in the United States.

So, while the car marks the first UK muscle car, it’s undeniable that the US played a massive role in sealing its place in history.

The engine was key to the car’s success, providing the power and performance that it became known for.

In fact, several Chrysler engines were used over the car’s decade-long life span, including a 6.3-liter big block and later a 7.2-liter.

Seeing as the heart of it is US-made, we wonder if one of these legendary cars is in the billionaire’s collection of over 442 American muscle cars.

This wouldn’t be the last time the UK would attempt to make muscle car history.

The British-made Aston Martin V8 Vantage gave American muscle cars in the same category a massive run for their money.

But nothing beats pure American muscle, right?

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