When did Ford stop the Capri?
The Ford Capri, a beloved classic car known for its sporty design and affordability, has a rich history that spans several decades. Often referred to as the "European Mustang," the Capri captured the hearts of car enthusiasts across the globe. However, like many iconic vehicles, its production eventually came to an end. In this article, we’ll explore the timeline of the Ford Capri and when its production ceased.
The History of the Ford Capri
The Ford Capri was first introduced in 1969 by Ford of Europe. It was designed to be a stylish yet affordable coupe, offering a sporty alternative to the more practical sedans of the time. The Capri quickly gained popularity, especially in Europe, thanks to its sleek design, customizable options, and impressive performance for its price point.
Over the years, the Capri went through several iterations, with three main generations being produced:
- Mark I (1969–1974): The original Capri, which set the standard for the model with its long hood and fastback styling.
- Mark II (1974–1978): A more refined version with improved interior space and updated styling.
- Mark III (1978–1986): The final generation, featuring sharper lines and more powerful engine options.
When Did Ford Stop Producing the Capri?
Ford officially ceased production of the Capri in December 1986. By this time, the market for affordable coupes had shifted, and the Capri faced increasing competition from newer models. Additionally, changing consumer preferences leaned more towards hatchbacks and compact cars, which offered greater practicality.
Although the Capri's production ended in 1986, its legacy lives on. The car remains a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts, with many lovingly restoring and maintaining their Capris to this day.
The Capri's Legacy
Even though the Ford Capri is no longer in production, it continues to hold a special place in automotive history. Its combination of style, performance, and affordability made it a standout vehicle of its time. Today, the Capri is celebrated at car shows and enthusiast gatherings, where its timeless design and nostalgic appeal are on full display.
If you’re lucky enough to own a Ford Capri or are considering purchasing one, proper maintenance is key to preserving its charm and performance. At Kevin's Autos, we specialize in classic car maintenance and repair, ensuring your vehicle stays in top condition for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ford equivalent of the Mercury Capri?
1979 Ford Mustang
As part of several changes over its predecessor, the Capri was officially part of the Mercury model line as Lincoln-Mercury ended captive imports of the Ford Capri in favor of creating a Mercury counterpart of the 1979 Ford Mustang.
What car took over the Capri?
Although the Capri was not officially replaced, the second-generation Probe was effectively its replacement after the later car's introduction to the European market in 1994.
Is the Ford Capri coming to America?
While we won't be getting the Capri stateside, it's set to be built in Cologne, Germany.
What replaced the Ford Torino?
The Elite name was dropped after 1976 as the Ford mid-size range was restructured for the 1977 model year. The Thunderbird was dramatically reduced in size and price for 1977 by moving its nameplate to the Torino-based LTD II platform which was the restyled replacement for the Torino.
Was the Ford Capri a good car?
If you can ignore the name for a second, the Capri is a likeable car. It's spacious, the interior is smart and it generally drives well by class standards. But it's not a sports car, as much as Ford might try and tell you otherwise. But my biggest personal issue with the Capri is the price.
Is the Ford Capri returning?
New Electric Ford Capri is on its Way to Customers. COLOGNE, Germany, Oct. 14, 2024 – The legend isn't just back – it's now on its way to the first Ford Capri customers in almost four decades.
Was the Ford Capri fast?
The Tickford Capri used a turbocharged 2.8 Injection Cologne engine which developed 205 hp (153 kW), allowing it to reach 60 miles per hour in 6.7 seconds and 100 miles per hour in 18.5 seconds, topping out at 137 miles per hour.
What Ford replaced the Capri?
The Ford Probe
The Ford Probe that arrived in the late 80s is considered the Capri's replacement by many, but we think you'll agree that its design isn't quite a match for that of the legendary Capri. For this reason and ouite a few others, the Ford Capri still holds iconic status.
How many Ford capris were made?
Marketed under the tagline “the car you've always promised yourself”, the Ford Capri was a very successful model for Ford. Just under 2 million Ford Capri's in three generations rolled off the production line between 1969 and 1986, with almost half a million cars hitting the road within the first two years.
What is the most sought after Ford Capri?
Of these the 2.8 Injection is probably the most coveted, especially in Special trim with the five-speed gearbox, Recaro seats and standard limited-slip differential. With around 160PS (118kW) these have enough grunt to make sense of the junior muscle car looks and will always put a smile on your face.
