Ford Capri 1300L
ENGINE 1298cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 57bhp@5500rpm TORQUE 67lb ft@3000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 90mph 0-60MPH 18.5sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 29-35mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual MoT September 2021 ODOMETER 39,432 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
Given that this car has such a small engine, it pulls well and is relatively quiet – it’s certainly more eager than the power output would suggest. The four-speed gearbox is a delight to use and the whole driving experience is free from any extraneous noises or rattles. Steering feels good and isn’t too heavy under load. Stopping power is average but the brakes are balanced.
BODYWORK CHECK
The beautiful Daytona Yellow paint positively glows – unsurprisingly given the evidence of a 2004 refresh in the history file – but there are a couple of flaws, including very small areas of paint damage on the nearside, specifically on one wing’s leading edge above the headlight and on the door. Panels are straight overall while the boot and the floors are solid and clean. All the trim, including hub caps, bumpers and badging, is excellent and the vinyl roof is in fabulous condition, with no rips, tears or suggestions that it’s hiding anything underneath. There’s surface rust on some of the undercarriage components and rust preventative treatment on the floor pans. The underside has also been treated with a black sealer but there are no noticeable signs of any welding.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The word ‘time-warp’ certainly rings true in this Capri’s exceptional interior. It looks pretty much original, right down to the carpets, door cards and seats, you would swear that the rear seats have never been sat in, the headlining is spotless and the wood-effect dash panels are in excellent condition. All of the controls work and the dash gauges are clear and operational. A working original factory-fitted LW/MW radio sits in a dashboard showing zero signs of wear and tear. The original ‘Go Perry’s’ rear window decal is still there, too.
UNDER THE BONNET
The engine doesn’t exactly fill the space, but the bay is tidy and clean with the usual signs of use – light tarnishing and surface rust. Everything appears standard, though the underside of the bonnet has been treated to a rust preventative. There are no visible signs of any oil or fluid leaks of oil or fluids. The dealer service history dates from 1973 to current.
THE CCW VIEW
The car you always promised yourself? This rare surviving base model car is a genuinely interesting gem and should be regarded as a car that needs driving rather than treating as another project. This is a rare opportunity to acquire an unspoilt and cherished Capri with genuine low mileage and all of the original manuals, including a service book and MoT certificates dating back to 1976. A much sought-after classic Ford.