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Ford Capri history
The story of the Capri begins way back in the 60s, when Philip T Clark who had designed the Ford Mustang was tasked with created a coupe which would appeal to the European market in the same way the Mustang did to Ford’s American customer.
I always think the 60s is such an interesting time in Ford’s history because in the beginning of the decade you’ve got very separate arms of the business in England and in Germany but by the end of the decade, not only are the two countries working together well but producing cars which have to equally appeal to both markets.
Although you do see the two countries using different engines to suit home markets - but that’s perhaps a deep dive for a Ford history video.
In terms of appeal and affordability, the Capri wasn’t a completely new design; the first generation took mechanicals from the Cortina and unlike some manufacturers that really revelled in keeping cars unaffordable unless somebody was in their target demographic, Ford decided they’d give the Capri a big as potentially possible market share by giving a variety of engines and corresponding price points.
However, you might be thinking Ford didn’t spend much by borrowing from something already in the market - not so - the design which had first appeared on drawing boards in 1965, had a £20 million investment - so it had to work. Ford priced it from £890, which meant the fun fastback was within the grasp of the many, not the few.
The first generation ran until 74 and was replaced by second gen which featured the shortened nose, increased space within the cabin and clamshell style rear hatch and the folding rear bench seat. In addition to this, the suspension was softened, larger discs added and an auto box and power steering added as options on higher specs.
Ford also streamline the engine range, so you see the 1.3 as base and the 3 litre Essex V6 as range topper - giving buyers two VERY different experiences in the same car.
And then finally, we get to what we’re testing today: the MK3. The MK3 was introduced in 1978 and unlike the early 20 million budget, the revamp budget for the MK3 was a lot more restrained at only £480,000; which is perhaps why it didn’t reinvent the wheel but more facelift the MK2; however, it’s a very attractive facelift and the quad lamps, new wings, new bonnet, bumpers which are no longer chrome and interior options really give it a modern twist for the time of launch.
Also limited was the engine refresh; options were carried from the MK2 although the 1.3 was tweaked to improve durability and reliability with a new crossflow head and the 3 litre Kent engine is ousted from the range in the early 80s and replaced with the Granada’s 2.8 V6 to meet emissions requirements.
Production came to a close in the year this car we test today here was sold and what an example we’ve got - this one we’re testing today is on 35,000 miles from new, is in remarkably original condition and as you’ll see later on, gives the same buzz behind the wheel as she did new 37 years ago.