ENTHUSIASTS wanting to own an iconic Jensen car are being offered the chance of snapping up a rare, limited edition model signalling the marque’s 80th anniversary.

A new business, Jensen Motors, which revives the original trading name of the company, has been set up in Banbury and two of the eight special cars have been snapped up already at a cost of about £200,000 each, despite the anniversary not falling until 2016.

Director Steve Barby said: “The eight special cars will either be new or completely refurbished.

“It could be any of the Jensen models produced over the last 80 years. The main aim is to preserve the integrity of the brand as a prime example of British engineering and heritage.”

Mr Barby has joined forces with Gregg Alvarez to produce the cars as well as restoring Jensens for enthusiasts.

Both previously worked at the Cropredy Bridge garage in Cropredy which has restored and sold Jensens for many years.

Mr Alvarez said: “I cut my teeth on Jensen models as a 19-year-old apprentice, and have worked on complete restoration projects, built modernised Interceptors and upgraded and modified engines, suspension and interiors.”