1986 Ford Capri Mk3 Laser 2.0

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 resultant new coupé was actually designed by American Philip T. Clark, known for being one of the main designers of the Mustang.

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 department were able to leave examples of its new car 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 breed 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'.

From November 1984 onwards, the Capri was only produced for the British market and only right hand drive cars were available from this date. The normally aspirated 1.6 and 2.0 litre Pinto-engined variants were rebranded 'Lasers' with a big marketing push by Ford. These new models featured more stylish interior trim and a number of changes from the outgoing cars including a fully populated instrument pod (with a 4-speaker digital stereo cassette player), a leather gear lever, a leather steering wheel, four-spoke alloy wheels (as used on the S models), a rear spoiler, an electric aerial, tinted windows and colour-coded grill and mirrors. A Capri Laser was instantly recognisable by their chequered side stripes running above the side trim and matching chequered cloth seats.

Here is a 1986, 2.0 litre, Mklll Capri Laser which is presented in amazingly original and unrestored condition. This car has covered just 6,904 miles from new and comes with lots of history, its original bill of sale, numerous old MoT certificates and some early Ford service history. Its owner was involved in the car maintenance/servicing business and was equally fastidious when it came to his own car. It has seldom been out in the rain, retains its original rust proofing from new and still sits on its original tyres with an untouched spare! Looking fantastic in Ford 'Mineral Blue', it really is exceptional in its level of preservation, and is surely one of the best examples available.

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 examples are very rare. One in standard specification, as it was when it left the factory, very rare indeed. To find an original car boasting just one registered owner - now that would be a tall order. One with all of this and that had covered just 6,904 miles from new - well, that surely would be impossible........wouldn't it?