Although the Mk3 Capri had been announced in 1978, and could trace
its origins back to the 1969 Mk1, strong sales prompted Ford to instruct
Rod Mansfield's Special Vehicle Engineering team to develop a more
sporting model for 1981, the 2.8 injection. The injected 'Cologne' V6,
stiffer springs and dampers, improved brakes and recalibrated PAS
transformed it into a real drivers' car and sales leapt accordingly.
From 1984 the left-hand-drive Capri was dropped but strong UK demand
meant the right-hand-drive UK market only Capri 2.8i Special was
announced. This featured a coloured-keyed grille, leather facings for
the seats, gear-lever, steering wheel and trim panels, plus a standard
limited-slip differential and 7-spoke RS alloy wheels.
The 2.8i Special modelled is owned by a collector and is considered
to be one of the best in the UK. It was used as transport until 1994 but
was still in sound condition when, in 1995, it was totally rebuilt to a
‘better-than-new’ standard, using many new parts in order to compete in
the Autoglym Concours Championship. It reached the finals at the NEC in
1995 and 1996, having won its regional finals twice. It has since been
used intermittently for shows and won a gold award at the 2007 Capri
Club Nationals and Best in Show at Classic Wonderland. Retro Ford
Magazine featured the car in their Concours Corner section in 2007 and
called it 'the best Capri in Britain'.
Engine capacity: 2792cc V6 OHV
Power: 160bhp@5700rpm
Torque: 162lb.ft@4300rpm
Max speed: 127mph
0-60mph: 7.9secs
Weight (unladen): 2620lbs