The Ford Capri is a classic car that still excites car lovers years after it stopped being made. It looks cool and has strong engines, giving you a mix of style and fun driving that’s hard to find in new cars. If you’re thinking about getting one of these famous cars, you’re in for an exciting adventure that combines car history, fun driving, and maybe even a good investment.
A Look Back at the Ford Capri’s Rich History
The Ford Capri was made from 1968 to 1986 and was known as Europe’s version of the Ford Mustang. Ford sold an amazing 1.9 million Capris during its 18 years, making it one of the most popular sports cars of its time. Philip T. Clark, who also helped design the original Mustang, created the Capri. His goal was to make a car that looked sporty and was fun to drive, but was also affordable for many people in Europe and other places.
The Capri had three different versions over the years, each with its own special features:
- Mark 1 (1969-1974): The first version with the famous sloping back design that car fans loved. This model made the Capri famous for being stylish and affordable.
- Mark 2 (1974-1978): This version had a more practical hatchback design, making the car more useful without losing its sporty look.
- Mark 3 (1978-1986): The last version had updated looks and stronger engines. This was the best Capri ever made and became a true performance icon.
Why the Ford Capri Remains Popular Today
People still love the Ford Capri because it looks cool in a way that never gets old. It mixes the style of American muscle cars with European elegance. This unique mix creates a car that looks and drives differently from other classic cars. Collectors and car fans like its special character, which gives a driving experience that feels both old-school and exciting. The Capri came with different engines, from smaller four-cylinder ones to powerful V6 engines, so there’s a Capri for everyone’s taste. Also, owners can customize their Capris, making them even more special.
As a classic car, the Capri lets you feel connected to car history in a way new cars can’t. It’s from a time when cars were made with passion and character, focusing on making the driver feel connected to the car instead of adding lots of digital stuff or self-driving features. This realness really appeals to people who want to feel more connected when they drive.
The Capri’s value as a collector’s item has been going up, even faster than many other classic cars. Some Capri models have seen their value go up by as much as 100% between 2018 and 2022. This big increase in value is because people feel nostalgic, there aren’t many well-kept Capris left, and more people are realizing how important the Capri is in car history. These trends make the Capri a great choice for people who want to enjoy owning one and for those looking to invest in classic cars.
Things to Consider When Buying a Ford Capri
If you’re looking for a Ford Capri for sale, here are some important things to think about:
- Condition: Look for cars that have been well taken care of and don’t have much rust. Fixing up a rusty Capri can be expensive and take a long time.
- Authenticity: Check the car’s history and make sure it hasn’t been changed too much. Original parts or changes from the same time period can make the car more valuable.
- Model variations: Learn about the different engine options and trim levels to find the right one for you. Each type offers a different driving experience and collectability.
- Common issues: Be aware of typical problems like rust in certain areas, worn-out suspension parts, and engine issues that some models might have.
- Parts availability: It’s easier to find Capri parts now than it used to be, but some rare parts might still be hard to get.
- Documentation: A complete service history and original paperwork can make a Capri more valuable and give you peace of mind when buying.
When looking at a Capri you might buy, check its overall condition carefully, especially for rust. Having an expert look at the car can help you find hidden problems. Test all the mechanical parts, including the engine, gearbox, brakes, and electrical systems. Remember that these are older cars and will need regular care to keep them running well. Think about how easy it will be to maintain the car, if there are mechanics near you who know how to work on Capris, and how much it might cost to fix up or keep the car running well.
The Driving Experience: What Makes the Ford Capri Special
Driving a Ford Capri is different from driving most modern cars. It feels more connected to the road because of its rear-wheel-drive setup and responsive engines. The Capri is light and well-balanced, which makes it fun to drive on twisty roads and even on race tracks.
The Capri came with different engines over the years, from small 1.3L four-cylinders to bigger 3.0L V6 engines. Each type of engine gives the car its own personality:
- 1.3L and 1.6L four-cylinder engines: Good for people who want the Capri look but with lower running costs.
- 2.0L four-cylinder: A good mix of performance and fuel efficiency, often thought to be the best all-around choice.
- 2.8L and 3.0L V6 engines: These give the most exciting performance and make a great sound, perfect for those who want the full Capri experience.
Inside the Capri, things are simple compared to new cars, but everything is set up to focus on the driver. The dashboard wraps around you, the gauges are easy to read, and the seats are comfortable, especially in the sportier models. Seeing the long hood from the driver’s seat makes you feel like you’re in a real sports car. Even though later models had a more practical hatchback design, they still felt sporty to drive.
Where to Find a Ford Capri for Sale
If you’re ready to look for a Ford Capri for sale, here are some places to check:
- Specialist classic car dealers: They often have high-quality cars that have been checked over and might come with a warranty. They might be more expensive, but you get expert help and support after you buy.
- Online marketplaces and auction sites: Places like eBay Motors, Classic Cars for Sale, and Bring a Trailer have lots of Capris from private sellers and dealers. You might find rare models or good deals, but be careful to check everything thoroughly.
- Classic car shows and events: These are great for seeing lots of Capris in person, talking to owners and experts, and maybe finding cars for sale that aren’t listed online.
- Ford Capri owner clubs and forums: Members often sell their well-maintained cars here. Buying from a club member can give you good information about the car’s history and how it’s been taken care of.
- Local classifieds and car lots: Sometimes you can find unexpected treasures, especially in areas where people love classic cars.
When looking at listings, make sure to research each car’s history and condition. Don’t be afraid to ask for lots of photos, documents, and service records. Think about getting a professional to inspect the car before you buy, especially if it’s expensive or far away. Remember, the cheapest Capri might not be the best deal in the long run; a well-maintained car that costs a bit more could save you money and headaches later on.
Joining the Ford Capri Community
Owning a Ford Capri isn’t just about the car; it’s also about becoming part of a group of people who love these classic cars. There are many Capri clubs and online forums where owners share advice, organize meetups, and celebrate their love for these cars. Joining these groups can be really helpful for getting maintenance tips, finding parts, and enjoying the company of other Capri fans.
Some popular Ford Capri clubs and resources include:
- Capri Club International: One of the biggest and oldest Capri clubs, offering events, technical help, and lots of information.
- Ford Capri Owners Club: Provides forums, meetups, and access to a network of Capri experts and enthusiasts.
- Online forums such as Capri Mk1, Mk2 & Mk3 Owners Club Forum: Places to discuss all aspects of owning a Capri, from technical issues to historical information.
Being part of these communities not only makes owning a Capri more fun but also helps keep the Ford Capri’s legacy alive for future generations. Many clubs work to keep parts available, record the history of the model, and show why the Capri is important in car culture.
Conclusion: Embracing the Ford Capri Legacy
The Ford Capri is still a beloved classic that car fans around the world love. Its cool looks, fun driving experience, and growing value as a collector’s item make it a great choice for anyone who wants to own a piece of car history. Whether you’ve owned lots of classic cars or you’re new to vintage vehicles, the Ford Capri offers a unique and rewarding experience that’s somewhere between affordable classics and high-end collectibles.
As you start looking for your perfect Ford Capri, remember to be patient and careful. Take time to learn about different models, check potential purchases thoroughly, and test drive whenever you can before deciding. If you choose a good Capri and take care of it, it can give you years of fun driving, a sense of being part of a community, and might even go up in value over time.
Whether you like the early Mark 1 models with their original design, the practical yet sporty Mark 2 versions, or the refined and powerful Mark 3 models, there’s a Ford Capri out there for everyone. Each model has its own charm and driving feel, so you can choose the perfect Capri for what you like and how you want to use it.
As classic cars become more valuable and people appreciate iconic designs more, the Ford Capri stands out as a car that’s fun to own and could be a good investment. It’s easy to get into, performs well, and looks great, making it a good first classic car or a nice addition to any collection.
So why not start looking for your Ford Capri today and experience the thrill of classic Ford performance yourself? With a Ford Capri in your garage, you’ll own a piece of car history and join a group of passionate people dedicated to keeping these amazing cars on the road. Owning a Capri is an exciting journey full of fun, challenges, and rewards – all waiting for you to discover.