Greatest road tests ever: Ford Capri 2000 GT

The Mk1 Capri was sensible, speedy and partaking, and the initial in a extensive line of sporty Fords that were being to offer inexpensive thrills for the masses

Examined: 10.7.69

The Capri’s Weber-carburetted V4 was sourced from the Ford Corsair, as was its shut-ratio four-pace handbook transmission. Quiet and smooth to 3500rpm, the engine grew to become harsh over that, but the brief-throw gearbox was enjoyably light and precise.

The 2000 GT simply outperformed the 83bhp 1600 GT 4-pot model by the gears, and also returned much better economy previously mentioned 50mph. Servoed brakes (entrance discs, rear drums) labored nicely to begin with but endured fade with recurring use.

In spite of a are living rear axle, the rear-travel Capri taken care of tidily, with gentle understeer in standard driving, throttle-adjustable cornering and lift-off oversteer that only turned a handful in extremis. The rack and pinion steering lacked sense and self-centring, however, hampering high-velocity security.

Road noise was low, but there was some thumping above joints and an irritating exhaust resonance at 2800rpm.

The or else comfortable entrance seats lacked lateral aid and myriad switchgear was baffling, while the rear cabin was rather limited to accommodate adults. But in general we uncovered the Capri rapidly, protected, comfortable and very affordable.

FOR Rate, sweet gearbox, neat managing, worth

From Unrefined motor, steering, exhaust resonance

FACTFILE

Price tag £1096 Engine V4, 1996cc, petrol Power 93bhp at 6000rpm Torque 104lb ft at 3600rpm -60mph 10.6sec -100mph 40.9sec Standing quarter mile 18.2sec at 78mph Top rated speed 106mph Overall economy 23mpg

WHAT Transpired Future?

The Capri was a profits strike, and 1 million had been manufactured by late 1973. All through 1973-74, 248 RS3100 race-homologating specials were being designed making use of a 3.1-litre Essex V6.