1986 Ford Capri 2.8i Turbo Technics

After nine years and 1.5 million cars, the sales of Ford’s Capri in the UK had taken a distinctive southerly turn and a refresh was called for. 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-fitted 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.

On offer here is a 1984, 2.8-litre, Mklll Capri ‘Turbo Technics' from the last year of production. First registered on 14th January 1986, it’s finished in the rare colour combination for a Capri Injection of Paris Blue over Silver enhanced by red and white ‘Injection’ coach lines and a set of RS ‘Brooklands’ alloys wearing matching Yokohamas. The Grey Recaro interior has recently been refreshed and the car was optioned with a manual sunroof.

The car’s history file contains correspondence from Turbo Technics with a 'rolling road' print-out indicating an output of 215bhp at the time. The file also contains a collection of invoices, receipts and bills going back over many years, as well as a host of past MOTs. The MOT history trail going back to 2005 shows that it has covered just over 1,000 miles a year on average. The current indicated mileage (at the time of consigning) was 37,178, however, there is not sufficient early history to confirm that. It will be offered with a fresh MOT before the sale.

MkIII Capris with an original Turbo Technics conversion are now becoming rare and sought after, particularly when they are as well presented as this lovely Paris Blue example.