Is the Ford Capri FWD or RWD?
The Ford Capri is rear-wheel drive (RWD). It was designed as a traditional European sports coupe, and across its production life (1969–1986) Ford did not offer a factory front-wheel-drive Capri. This RWD layout is a defining trait that enthusiasts commonly reference when discussing the Capri’s performance and handling.
To understand what this means across the Capri's generations, here is a concise look at how the drivetrain was implemented and remained consistent over time, with context on variants that are often mistaken for being FWD.
Drivetrain across the Capri generations
The Capri's core design remained rear-wheel drive through its main production run. The following points summarize the main generations and variants where the drivetrain is relevant.
- Capri Mk1 (late 1960s to early 1970s) — rear-wheel drive (RWD).
- Capri Mk2 (mid to late 1970s) — rear-wheel drive (RWD).
- Capri Mk3 / 1980s models — rear-wheel drive (RWD).
- Notable variants (RS2600, 2.8 Injection, and other performance editions) — rear-wheel drive (RWD).
In all standard production forms, the Capri maintained a rear-wheel-drive layout, with the power delivered to the rear wheels via a traditional transaxle or differential arrangement. There were no factory-produced FWD Capri models, though aftermarket conversions or concept studies could exist in various forms in speculative discussions or restorations.
Why the drive layout matters for performance and maintenance
The choice of RWD aligned with the Capri's performance emphasis, providing balanced handling characteristics for a lightweight sports coupé and compatibility with Ford's inline-four, six-cylinder, and V6 engines of the era. For collectors, this historical layout remains a key factor in maintenance, parts availability, and restoration authenticity.
Summary
Conclusion: The Ford Capri is, and always has been, a rear-wheel-drive vehicle. Across its Mk1, Mk2, and Mk3 generations, as well as its notable variants, the Capri's drivetrain remained firmly RWD. There is no factory FWD Capri in production history; if you encounter a FWD claim, it is either a misidentification, a non-factory modification, or a regional adaptation not tied to Ford's official Capri lineup.
Summary: The Ford Capri’s enduring legacy is its rear-wheel-drive setup, reflecting Ford's European sports coupe philosophy of the era and underpinning its appeal among enthusiasts.
Is the Ford Capri rear-wheel drive?
You can have the Ford Capri either with one motor and rear-wheel drive or – if you go for the quickest version – two motors and four-wheel drive.
Is the Ford Capri FWD?
CAPRI LAUNCH SPECIFICATION HIGHLIGHTS
286 PS 8 rear-wheel drive extended range • 340 PS 8 all-wheel drive extended range • 627 km driving range 6 • 592 km driving range 9 • 10-80% DC fast charge in approx.
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Was the Ford Capri a good car?
The new Ford Capri might be a boxy electric SUV, but it's fun to drive and certainly stands out. It's compromised though, with slightly cramped back seats and an average range on a full charge. The cabin's also home to some scratchy plastics that seem out of place considering you can spec one up to £60,000.
Is the Mercury Capri FWD or RWD?
While both two-door convertibles similar in size and price, the Mercury Capri and Mazda MX-5 featured major departures in powertrain and interior configurations, with the Capri adopting a front-wheel-drive powertrain.
