What is the top speed of the Ford Capri 2.0 S?
The Ford Capri 2.0 S typically reaches about 195 km/h (roughly 121 mph) in standard, well-maintained form.
In this article we explore what that top speed means, how it was measured in period testing, and which factors can cause real-world cars to differ from the cited figure.
Top speed figures and context
Early 1970s brochures and contemporary road tests for the Capri 2.0 S commonly cite a top speed near 195 km/h (around 121 mph). Real-world performance often falls within a narrow band (roughly 190–195 km/h or 118–121 mph) depending on condition and setup.
Several variables can influence the measured top speed, including engine tuning, final-drive gearing, aerodynamics, vehicle weight, tire choice, and the environment in which the speed is recorded. The Capri 2.0 S used a 2.0-liter inline-four in a lightweight body, making it one of the quicker versions in the early Capri lineup for its class.
Notes on measurement and variability: the exact top speed can differ by market, year, and individual car. Maintenance, carburetion or injection condition, and gearing all play a role in the final figure a tester would record.
In summary, a well-maintained Ford Capri 2.0 S is generally recognized as capable of approaching the low-to-mid 120 mph range, with the commonly cited benchmark sitting near 121 mph (195 km/h).
Factors that influence top speed
The list below highlights the main elements that can cause real-world top speed to differ from the theoretical figure.
- Engine tuning and reliability: The 2.0-liter inline-four's state of tune and carburetion/EFI condition influence maximum power output.
- Final drive and gearing: Transmission ratios determine the speed at which the engine reaches its peak power.
- Aerodynamics and weight: Drag and curb weight affect how quickly the Capri can accelerate to and sustain top speed.
- Tire size and condition: Tire width, aspect ratio, and tread condition impact grip and rolling resistance at high speeds.
- Environmental conditions and testing method: Temperature, altitude, wind, and the difference between a controlled test and street conditions can shift the observed top speed.
Ultimately, the top speed figure serves as a guideline reflecting typical performance under favorable, maintained conditions rather than an exact, universal value for every car.
Summary
The Ford Capri 2.0 S is generally regarded as capable of about 195 km/h (approximately 121 mph) in standard form, with real-world results varying by year, market, and condition. For enthusiasts and restorers, keeping the engine and drivetrain in good tune, using appropriate tires, and maintaining a sensible weight will help approach the cited figure.
