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