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SOLD (£22,500)

1986 Ford Capri 2.8i Special

1986 Ford Capri 2.8i Special - View All

Exterior

Interior

Mechanical

Documents

Vehicle History

Overall condition: Good
Number of owners: 4
History: Part
MOT: 30th August 2023

The Ford Capri dates back to 1969 and had a fruitful production run until 1988. A memorable advertising campaign centred around the slogan: “The car you always promised yourself” and Ford’s attempts to create a European counterpart to the Mustang saw significant success.

In 1978, Ford introduced the MK3 Capri that saw improved aerodynamics and a number of design modifications, such as the introduction of quadruple round headlights. Three years later, the Capri 2.8 Injection was made available to the public and in 1985, the Capri 2.8i Special was introduced, featuring a limited-slip differential, upgraded brakes, a 5-speed gearbox and half-leather Recaro seats.

This particular Capri 2.8i Special has only 35k miles on the clock (which can be supported by the history file) and was featured on Fifth Gear with Vicki Butler-Henderson driving the Ford enthusiastically and waxing lyrical about its virtues. The episode can be viewed on the YouTube video below, but the car also comes with a VHS cassette from the production company. Four owners have so far contributed to the comprehensive history of this Ford Capri 2.8i Special and it now waits for its fifth custodian.

Exterior

  • Original 15′ seven-spoke RS-style alloy wheels
  • Finished in the original paint work of Paris Blue
  • Colour-coded front grille

Finished in Paris Blue paintwork, the Capri 2.8i Special’s original coachwork gleams in the sun and the paintwork has no obvious stone chips or swirl marks. There is a slight dint under the coachline on the rear nearside wing, but the body panels are original with no welding. As expected of an unrestored, 38-year-old car, there is some slight surface rust on the on one or two areas.

Original 15in seven-spoke RS-style alloy wheels are fitted and in good condition with centre caps all present. There is a small amount of kerb ‘rash’ on the left front, left rear and right rear rims and wheels are shod with Toyo tyres in excellent condition with even wear and at least 5mm tread remaining.

The Capri 2.8i Special has a body coloured sunroof with deflector – a fantastic addition when at the wheel on a warm summer’s day and all plastic trim, glass and rubber seals appear to be in good condition.

Watch a video of the 1986 Ford Capri 2.8i Special

©Copyright – Fifth Gear/Channel 5

Mechanics

  • Fitted with a 2,792cc engine
  • Has a limited-slip differential
  • Five-speed manual gearbox
  • MOT until August 2023

This Capri is powered by a 2,792cc petrol engine, mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox and offering a visceral driving experience that is both engaging and thrilling.

The limited-slip differential is a tribute to its sporting credentials and provides optimal traction and control on sweeping bends and long stretches of road. The car has been well maintained and cared for, holding a valid MOT until August 2023 – further testament to its good health.

Although some surface rust is present on the wheel arches, underbody and on some components including the top of the radiator, the engine bay still looks very presentable and is ripe for some fettling in order to bring it up to an excellent standard.

Interior

  • Period correct dashboard
  • Headlining in good condition
  • Half-leather seats

Once inside, the Recaro grey half-leather seats are in excellent condition, providing a comfortable and supportive base from which to enjoy the car’s lively performance. The rear seats in particular appear as if they have been hardly used and the door cards and headlining are both unmarked.

The period-correct dashboard carries a nostalgic air and is a reminder of the era from which this car was made. It is well equipped and fitted with the original Ford digital FM radio and cassette deck.

The leather-covered three-spoke steering wheel is in very good condition and, as expected from a car that has been used and enjoyed, the gear knob leather is showing some patina. Both footwells are fitted with rubber floor mats. The large hatch is easily supported on hydraulic struts, and the rear parcel shelf and carpets present well. There is a matching spare wheel with a good tyre present.

Why buy?

If you remember ‘the car you always promised yourself’, then consider this Ford Capri 2.8i Special. With a sporting pedigree and television history thanks to Fifth Gear and Vicki Butler-Henderson, it’s time to seize the moment and fulfil that promise.

Vehicle Specification

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Notice to bidders

Please note whilst Bidding Classics offer the most descriptive auction listings and in-depth photos and videos, we cannot claim they are totally accurate reflections of the condition of each vehicle listed for sale. Therefore, we encourage all bidders to do their own due diligence and arrange a viewing of each vehicle for sale. Viewings can be arranged by posting in the comments section below, this will trigger an email to the seller, who will get in contact to arrange a time of mutual convenience.

Also, it is likely that many of the classic cars sold through our platform will have had repair work in the past that we cannot verify. As such we do not warrant (and no warranty shall be implied) that the repairs have been carried out to a high standard or that any replacement parts are genuine.

Please do ask any questions by filling in the ‘Ask a question’ form and one of our team will be in touch, or visit our Frequently Asked Questions section if you have questions about the buying process. If you require any additional photos or videos let the seller know, and we’ll ensure they are captured and sent over as soon as possible.

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