1983 FORD CAPRI

Towards the end of its life, the Ford Capri enjoyed an upswing in interest as more buyers realised that perhaps a front-wheel hot-hatch simply wasn't for them and a V6-engined, rear-wheel drive sporting hatchback might very well do the job. Ford's Special Vehicle Engineering group was entrusted with developing the Capri 2.8 Injection that made its debut at the 1981 Geneva Motor Show. Based at the Research and Engineering centre in Essex, SVE decided to adopt the 2.8-litre V6 with Bosch K-Jetronic fuel-injection - the first regular model since the RS2600 to use fuel-injection - plus lowered suspension, thicker anti-roll bars, gas-filled shock absorbers and wide-rim alloy wheels fitted with Goodyear's 205/60VR NCT tyres.

This is a simply stunning example of the 5-speed 2.8 Injection. Beautifully presented in gleaming Signal Black with the signature red and grey pinstripes running along the length of the bodywork, it sits on a set of the correct 7-spoke RS alloys. The interior appears equally cared for in classic Recaro light grey leather and pinstripe cloth and a grey leather covered steering wheel which sits neatly in front of the odometer which reads a remarkable 26,275 miles.

Originally registered in 1983, an invoice in the file shows the second owner purchased it in 1985 and then proceeded to covet the Capri for over 35 years. Purchased by our vendor in 2020, it was decided to return the car to top form as although very few miles had been covered, it was looking very tired. The engine was reconditioned with an unleaded conversion in 2020 and the bodywork was fully restored the following year with the respective invoices totalling almost £7,000. Two MOT Certificates are present in the history folder, the latest being from 11th April 1988 where the mileage was indicated at just 24,935. More recently in August 2020 another MOT was carried out, noting 'no advisories' and just 26,272 miles, meaning in 32 years only 1,337 miles had been covered - amazing.

The engine bay is show quality and looks really impressive, however there are a number of parts that have been substituted with alloy equivalents and although they look fabulous, they won't impress a Concours Judge but, according to our vendor, these pieces are removable and the engine bay can be returned to ‘as original’ condition if the next owner wishes.

As the penultimate model behind the 'Brooklands', many owners feel that the 2.8 Injection was the 'sweet spot' of Capri development and this stunning example with just two previous keepers, a nominal mileage and in 'show-winning' condition represents an excellent opportunity to acquire one of the best currently on the market