12 May 09
Ford Capri Mk 1
Ford sold almost two million Capris over an 18-year production, winning the hearts of a generation of new performance car fans while embedding itself permanently in modern car culture.
It was a trick that Ford has struggled to match since, from the embarrassing Probe to the forgettable Cougar. But believe the rumours and Ford might finally be readying a true spiritual successor, one that will go head-to-head with its old enemy: the recently reincarnated VW Scirocco.
To coincide with the Capri's 40th birthday, we look back at the fast Ford's glorious and not-so glorious career. Read on to find out if we've included your favourite Capri.
Ford Consul Capri
The first one: Ford Consul Capri (1961-1964)
The first ever Capri to grace these shores wasn't actually the Cortina-based coupe we all know and love, but the 1961 Consul Capri.
Eight years before the 'real' Capri emerged, Ford had begun injecting some American glamour into its staid European models. Squint at the first Capri and you'll see a Ford Thunderbird in this two-door saloon. There was even the option of a transatlantic column shift gearchange.
But Ford made one crucial error. Under the bonnet, instead of a large six or big lazy V8, there was a wheezy 1.3 that was so lethargic it could barely break 80mph. No wonder some of the Capri fraternity conveniently ignore it.
