1981 Ford Capri 3000S

As exciting as the Capri Mk ll was rational, the 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, wrap-around bumpers and a plethora of TV star associations restored the Capri's mojo. At launch, all the existing engine and transmission combinations of the Mk ll were carried over, however only two 3.0-litre versions of the Mk lll were available, the 3000S (Sport) and the luxury Ghia. The 3000S is now generally regarded amongst enthusiasts as the most desirable. The character of the car stems from its cast-iron V6 engine. This is the legendary British-built, 2,994cc 'Essex' version (not the 2.8-litre German V6 which was adopted by the Granada range), putting out 138bhp and a healthy 174lb/ft of torque at 3,000rpm. It's such a basic, solid but effective design, described by a motoring journalist of the time: 'I have visions of this engine having been created by a Dagenham blacksmith beating it out on an anvil, with its character akin to a shire horse: totally un-temperamental, uncannily flexible and effortlessly powerful." This mighty engine and better aerodynamic efficiency meant the hard-charging 3000S now combined a 0-60mph in 8.5 seconds with a 122mph top speed. Heady stuff indeed.

RGX 424X was registered on 1st August 1981 making it one of the last 3.0-litre cars manufactured just prior to the 2.8 being launched and consequently is rather special. It was originally finished in Solid Black with Fishnet Recaros wearing Carla Check cloth and the long-legged 4-speed gearbox which, we understand, was the most desirable package at the time.

The Capri's current custodian came across this particular car in September 2020 and, although it was in decent overall condition, he required the best and therefore set about creating the superb show-stopping example you see here. The body was stripped and restored by Tiger Racing of Wisbech, fully photographed and documented, with the mechanicals overhauled by a local specialist at the same time. The owner sourced 4.5 metres of the original Carla cloth trim at a cost of £500 and this was duly sent off to another specialist in Canvey Island where the total interior was superbly refreshed including new foam where required and new door cards. The original RS alloy wheels, which are period correct and date stamped, were fitted with quality, correct-profile rubber in line with the factory specification. The engine is currently topped with a set of triple downdraught Webbers on an appropriate manifold and benefits from a free-flow full stainless steel exhaust system and we understand that in the past it was rolling-road tested showing 197bhp at the flywheel, around 50bhp more than standard bhp. Having recently been serviced and carefully set up, that figure could be in excess of 200bhp now.

The car is supplied with an owner's file that contains the owners manual, original handbook, all the invoices relating to the restoration, a memory stick with all the photographic evidence of the body and paintwork and older receipts etc. The work was completed in February this year and the finished car has since been magazine featured. It has a current MOT (no advisories) valid until next year for that added peace of mind.

With just 33,824 miles on the clock this lovely Capri will be highly sought-after and, if you are a fan of the Bodie and Doyle 3000S in The Professionals, or simply a fan of the Blue Oval, this stunning 3000S is sure to tick all your boxes.