1980 Ford Capri 3.0-Litre S

The Ford Capri made its sensational debut at the 1969 Brussels International Motor Show, although production at the Halewood plant in Liverpool had actually begun two months earlier to ensure that every UK dealer had at least one in its showroom by the time sales started in February 1970. This level of forward production ensured that Ford's brilliant young marketing team were able to leave examples of its new model parked outside prominent buildings and near the entrance to 150 railway stations in the south-east of England. Initial sales exceeded the predicted demand by 100%, mainly because the Capri created an exciting new style of car on this side of the Atlantic. Here, at last, was a sleek, eye-catching 'fastback' that bridged the gap between the traditional two-seater sports car and the family saloon. The Capri concept was made all the more attractive by a remarkably wide choice of engines from a 1.3-litre to the lusty 3-litre V6.

As exciting as the Mk ll was rational, the Capri Mk lll (1978-1986) was one of the industry's most effective facelifts with a distinctly modern shape and its improved aerodynamics naturally resulted in better performance and economy. Quad headlights, wraparound bumpers and a plethora of TV star appearances (particularly Bodie and Doyle in their 3.0S) restored the Capri's 'mojo'.

At launch, the existing engine and transmission combinations of the Capri II were carried over and the biggest seller eventually turned out to be the luxurious Ghia, however, the 3.0-Litre S was generally regarded amongst enthusiasts as the most desirable.

On offer here is a UK-supplied, right-hand drive, 3.0-Litre S on offer from the private Collection of marque expert, Ric Wood. This was always Ric’s dream car and in 2019 he found this very car worthy enough to join his Collection. Finished in gleaming Venetian Red with Carla Check  'fishnet' Recaros, the car has covered just over 25,600 miles since leaving the factory in 1980.

Since its purchase, Ric has enhanced the car with XPAC-type upgrades including 7" RS alloys, vented discs and a limited-slip differential. The engine was stripped, 'blueprinted' and subtly upgraded using his in-house expertise and to finish the job, he has repainted the car externally and underneath. The results are up to show standards and we highly recommend that interested parties view this rather special Capri at Silverstone and see the impressive results for themselves.