£10 -20k TO SPEND

Things start to get a little more interesting in this price bracket, with cars such as the range-topping 2000GT MkI and V6 3000 GT, including the E and GXL models, which came with higher levels of trim. The 2000GT was the first vee-engined Capri, and was pretty rapid for its time with a ten-second (ish) 0-60mph dash. Better still, it has definite daily-driver potential. Similarly, the larger-engined 3000GT was the best of the bunch upon release and a true performance machine.

Cracking cars both then and now, and extremely desirable, both can be found in top condition for this sort of money.

The limited edition 3000S ‘Midnight Special’ is a more unusual and agile alternative to the standard MkII and mirrors the famous Lotus Formula One John Player Special livery of the mid-Seventies. It comes equipped with upgraded suspension, a bespoke interior and performance to match its looks. Condition can vary greatly over £10,000, so expect to see better cared-for cars at the top end of the range.

The 2.8i MkIII also falls into this bracket and is perhaps one of the most popular of all Capris. Still an exhilarating drive today, it arguably beats its obvious rival, the Opel Manta GTE, in both performance and looks.

Cheaper, rougher vehicles are available, of course, so you need to make the decision as to whether you want a rolling restoration or a tidy turnkey car.

At the higher end of the budget is the 2.8i Turbo Technics. Good conversions are attainable and among some of the fastest of all the Capris, as well as being stronger and more reliable than the Tickford Turbo. Genuine 3.0 X-Pack MkIIs and MkIIIs are rarer-still; with an increase in power and uprated suspension, along with a wider glassfibre body kit, they cater to the performance-minded individual and offer thrills in a more muscular package.