The first Ford model, named Capri, was the Capri Classic 1500, but this model has long been forgotten. Everyone remembers another Ford Capri, which was produced from January 1969 to 1987. In 1964, the Mustang appeared, and in 1965 it was decided to develop an alternative machine for the European market. So in 1969, Ford UK had a decent alternative to the Ford Mustang - the Ford Capri with a Coupe. The present coupe, two-door, four-seater, rear-wheel drive, with a salon shifted back and a stretched nose, is relatively compact and light, as was required by European aesthetes with not the highest incomes.
Installed motors working volume of 1298 cm ³ / 50 hp (from Escort), 1599 cm³ (from Cortina) and in-line, 4-cylinder engine with a volume of 1996 cm³ / 90 hp (from Corsair). The transmission was borrowed from Cortina. In 1970, the range of power units was supplemented with an Essex-type V6 engine, with a volume of 3 liters (140 hp). In total there were 26 configuration options (X-pack, L-pack and R-pack).
In 1972, they made a model facelift, made about 150 changes. Started to install the engine Pinto 1600 cm ³. In 1974, the second generation Capri was released. The car surpassed the predecessor in size, although in many respects it looked like it.
Body type changed to Hatchback (3 doors, 4 seats), which made the car more practical. In addition, changes were made to the chassis. Under the hood, OHT pinto (1300, 1600 and 2000 cm³) and V6 Essex (3000 cm³) motors were installed. The set of options is constantly expanding. Capri II was produced only 4 years from 1974-1978.
In 1978, the third (last) generation of the Capri model was introduced. It was not turned back into a coupe, but the appearance as a whole has become much more vigorous and even more impressive. The aerodynamics of the model was significantly improved (Cx to 0.403, and 0.374 on the Capri S).
The long hood received a characteristic stamping, and the lining instead of rectangular optics acquired fashionable dual round (halogen) headlights. There were moldings on the doors, a rear spoiler. The interior has remained almost the same as on the second generation Capri. Gas shock absorbers were installed, on more powerful models the anti-roll bar was enhanced.
The design was gradually improved, remaining, nevertheless, still simple and reliable. As a result of the persistent improvement of the “classic” design (the engine in front, the rear driving wheels, rear axle on springs) turned out excellent results: good comfort wheel suspension, good driving stability, precise steering (rack). As a drawback, poor visibility from the driver’s seat, especially back, can be noted. The power family was replenished with a 2.3-liter V6, in addition, the most advanced engine appeared - a 2.8-liter V6 with central injection. Along with the mechanical 4-speed gearbox, a 3-speed automatic was also proposed.
It's an amazing thing, but the basic version was still equipped with a 4-cylinder 1.3-liter engine. There were a complete set of L, LS, GL, GL, S, Laser, S and Ghia. Undoubtedly, for its time, the Capri looked no worse than the famous European sports cars, but the body clearly lacked that relief design, that ornate sloping shape and volume, which his overseas brother so spectacularly flaunted. The car stayed on the conveyor for a total of 18 years.
Other images auto Ford Capri
