FORD CAPRI
1989 - 1994
BODY & CHASSIS
Leaks were the major enemy of early-model Capris and even adding a hardtop didn’t entirely stop water getting inside. Checking the fabric for leaks might be difficult, but if you can grab the vendor’s hose and give it a burst that could save some money later on. Look for rusty floors, listen for door hinges that crunch and crackle and doors that can be moved vertically due to rusted hinge mountings. Next check the front substructure for kinks, rust or rough repairs and look at panel shut lines for inconsistencies. Make sure the lights lift and retract quickly and in unison.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
Single and twin-cam Mazda engines are durable but also easily replaced with a good used unit should something major detonate. Turbo versions are known quantities as well and durable providing proper maintenance is undertaken. Changing oil and the filter every 5000km (or less if the car is seldom used) is essential so ask for service history or invoices. Professional inspection is a must to ensure problems in the crowded engine bay aren’t overlooked. An experienced turbo fettler will know the drill. Transmission shudder might not be the fault of the clutch alone. Engine and transmission mounts that have cracked or weakened with age need to be replaced before they cause problems.
SUSPENSION & BRAKES
Edge-worn tyres are a big clue that a Capri’s suspension is overdue for some remedial work. Even at the rear, worn components will allow the wheels to splay and chew the inner edges of the rubber. During the test drive, perform a u-turn and accelerate hard, listening for clattering from front constant-velocity joints. Complete replacement drive-shafts cost $120-200 each and avoid the labour cost of dismantling the shafts just to fit new joints. Shuddering brakes indicate warped rotors but uprated replacements are cheap and easy to locate.
INTERIOR & ELECTRICS
This is the place where big problems and expense are likely to manifest. Look for wet or musty carpets, surface rust on metal components and electrical items that aren’t working. This caution relates especially to gauges which can suffer from corroded terminals behind the dash. Seats need to move easily on the runners. Some cars had specially-patterned trim and this will be hard to replace or even match to maintain authenticity. Insist the vendor raises and lowers the convertible top and if possible spray it with water to check for leaks.