1979 Ford Capri MkIII 3.0 S

As exciting as the Capri Mkll was rational, the Mklll (1978-1986) was one of the industry's most effective facelifts with a distinctly modern shape, and its improved aerodynamics naturally resulted in better performance and economy. Quad headlights, wrap-around bumpers and a plethora of TV star associations restored the Capri's mojo. At launch, the existing engine and transmission combinations of the Capri Mkll were carried over but only two 3.0-litre versions of the Mklll were available, the 3000S (Sport) and the luxury Ghia with the 3000S generally regarded amongst enthusiasts as the most desirable. Much of the car's 'muscle car' character emanates from its 2,994cc 'Essex' cast-iron V6 engine (the British-built version, not the 2.8-litre German V6 which was adopted by the Granada range) which generated 138bhp and a healthy 174lb/ft of torque at 3,000rpm. It's such a basic, solid but effective design, described by a noted motoring journalist at the time saying: 'I have visions of this engine having been created by a Dagenham blacksmith beating it out on an anvil, with its character akin to a shire horse: totally un-temperamental, uncannily flexible and effortlessly powerful.' This legendary power unit and better aerodynamic efficiency meant that the hard-charging Mklll 3000S now combined a 0-60 mph in 8.5 seconds with a 122 mph top speed, impressive today never mind nearly 50 years ago.

This car is a 1979 Ford Capri MkIII 3.0 S that was restored in 2010/11 and is offered fresh from a private Collection where the vendor acquired the car from us in 2018. When restored the car was fitted with a new body shell in order to produce the highest standard of restoration.

The original car was silver when new but is now finished in bright Signal Orange, a colour that suits both the car and the period. A thorough approach to the prep of the body shell saw the underside blasted, etch-primed, and painted with U-POL Raptor tinted signal orange, then finished with a coat of 2K Ford Signal Orange.

The engine was professionally rebuilt by Paul Finch of Finch Motorsport in Northampton with less than 1,500 miles since, and now fitted with a new Weber DGAS carburettor and a V34 rally camshaft, is said to run and drive superbly. The restoration work also created an opportunity to fit a 2.8 Special rear end, single-leaf suspension, a limited-slip differential, 2.8 Special front struts, new control arms, and a full manifold-to-tip stainless steel Janspeed exhaust system. The car sits on new 4-spoke RS wheels with new Dunlop Sport Classic tyres, original and properly fitted Ford small-logo mud flaps, plus original clips and fixtures etc. The Recaro seats and black and orange Carla check cloth are in immaculate condition with original fishnets fitted, and no holes in the parcel shelf or door-cards. Everything is said to work as it should, even the clock. The car has remained cherished in our vendor's private Collection since 2018 covering only around 200 miles since.

If you've always wanted a special Capri, the 3000S is considered to be one of the stand-out models, and this example seems to be one of the very best. We invite and encourage your close inspection at our forthcoming Race Retro sale.