What is the rarest Ford Capri?
The rarest Ford Capri is widely regarded as the RS2600, a late-1960s homologation model of which only a very small number were built—roughly a dozen or fewer—to comply with FIA Group 2 rules.
The Ford Capri spanned multiple generations and regional editions, spawning a handful of limited or special models. This article explains why the RS2600 holds the rarity crown and looks at other scarce Capris cited by collectors, along with what makes them unique.
Rarity of the RS2600 and what it represents
The RS2600 was Ford’s competition-focused variant produced to meet FIA Group 2 homologation requirements. Exact production figures are hard to pin down, but consensus among enthusiasts and historians places the total at only a handful of cars. Surviving examples are extremely prized by collectors due to their scarcity, provenance, and FIA-era engineering.
Why the RS2600 is so hard to find
Rarity stems from a deliberate, limited production run aimed at homologation rather than mass-market sales. The cars were built in small numbers, with many subsequently used in rallying or stripped for weight and performance, which further reduces the pool of complete originals today.
Notable rare Capri variants beyond the RS2600 include:
- Capri Perana (South Africa) — A locally developed V8-powered version produced in very small numbers in the late 1960s and early 1970s. This regional model remains highly sought after by collectors due to its extreme scarcity and unique regional history.
Regional variants like the Perana illustrate how Capri rarity can vary by market, with some editions far rarer in certain regions than in others.
How collectors identify authentic rare Capris
Authenticity hinges on matching VINs, chassis numbers, original documentation, and period-correct features. For RS2600s, provenance often includes race history and original competition equipment. For Perana and other regional specials, documentation and regional credits help confirm legitimacy.
Summary
The Ford Capri RS2600 stands as the benchmark for rarity within the Capri lineup, thanks to its tiny production run designed for homologation. While other scarce variants like the Capris produced for specific markets exist, none match the RS2600 in terms of confirmed production numbers. For collectors, provenance, authenticity, and careful vetting are essential when pursuing these ultra-rare Capris.
