1984 Ford Capri 2.8 Turbo Technics

The Ford Capri is a fastback coupé that was built by Ford Motor Company from 1969 to 1986. The inspiration came from Ford of America's phenomenally successful Mustang, and Ford of Europe were keen to replicate that success this side of the pond.

The 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 marketing team were able to leave examples of its mysterious new car parked outside prominent buildings and near the entrance to 150 railway stations in the south-east of England, creating a pent-up demand. Initial sales exceeded predictions 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 3.0-litre V6.

As exciting as the Mkll was rational, the Capri Mklll (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 appearances restored the Capri's "mojo'.

"Turbo Technics' was founded in 1981 by Geoff Kershaw, a former Garrett Ai-Research engineer who had worked on turbocharging Saab 99s and 900s. Based in Northampton, the company started co-operating with Ford on the Escort XR3 and XR3i, which eventually led to the development of the storming Escort RS Turbo of 1984.

Turbo Technics then turned their attentions to the Capri, which had evolved into its MkIII form in 1978. The advent of the definitive V6-engined 2.8i model in 1981 proved a superb platform for turbocharging. Standard cars offered 160 bhp, but Turbo Technics' conversions ranged from 200 bhp through to 280bhp. The tie-up with the Blue Oval paid dividends, with Ford being so impressed that they agreed to offer Turbo Technics-tweaked Capris through its dealerships, making them semi-official. Turbo Technics went on to modify other marques, and unlike many specialist tuners, it's still in business today continuing to offer their famous upgrades for the Capri, identical to those produced in the 80s and 90s.

Here is a 1984 2.8 litre, Mklll Capri "Turbo Technics' which is presented in original and unrestored condition. First registered on the 15th November 1984, with the supplying Ford dealership Paynes of Hinckley upgrading it with the turbo package before it even turned a wheel on the 12th November. This car has covered just 28,081 miles from new and comes with lots of history, its original bill of sale, numerous old MoT certificates (supporting the mileage) and some early Ford service history. It looks fantastic in the two-tone metallic colours of Nimbus Grey with Strato Silver.

The car was laid-up for a period of time before being bought by our vendor. As a Ford enthusiast, he started the re-commissioning process by getting it back running and into an acceptable condition. However, a new owner, appreciating that this as a rare and original car with such good history and mileage, could well use it as a basis to build on and further enhance its condition, thus completing its re-commissioning journey. This rare Capri would be welcome at any club meeting amongst the thriving Ford scene and attract rightful attention. The vendor tells us this is a solid example that drives very well and has real potential.

Capris are now becoming sought after, with low mileage original condition examples becoming harder to find and naturally it is these cars that are the most desirable. Completely unmolested 2.8i examples are rare. One in Turbo Technics specification, as it was when it left the dealership, very rare indeed. To find an original car boasting just two registered owners and having covered just 28,081 miles is an opportunity not to be missed.