When was the Ford Capri launched in the UK?
The Ford Capri, a beloved sports car, made its debut in the United Kingdom in 1969. This iconic vehicle, often referred to as the "poor man's Mustang," captured the hearts of automotive enthusiasts across Europe with its sleek design and impressive performance.
The Birth of the Ford Capri
The Ford Capri was conceived as a European counterpart to the successful Ford Mustang in the United States. Developed by a team of Ford engineers and designers, the Capri was designed to be an affordable, sporty car that would appeal to a wide range of customers. The first Capri rolled off the production line on December 16, 1968, and was officially launched in the UK in early 1969.
Capturing the Imagination of Drivers
The Ford Capri's distinctive fastback design, long hood, and short deck immediately caught the attention of car enthusiasts. With a range of engine options, from the economical 1.3-liter to the powerful 3.0-liter V6, the Capri offered something for everyone. Its nimble handling and responsive performance made it a favorite among drivers who sought an exhilarating driving experience.
The Capri's Legacy
Over its 17-year production run, the Ford Capri evolved and underwent several updates, but it never lost its appeal. It became a cultural icon, appearing in numerous television shows and movies, and cementing its place in automotive history. The Capri's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless design and the joy it brought to drivers across Europe.p>
The Ford Capri's launch in the UK in 1969 marked the beginning of a legendary chapter in the annals of automotive history. Its combination of style, performance, and affordability made it a beloved sports car that continues to captivate enthusiasts to this day.
What cars did Ford make in the 70s UK?
Fords of the 1970's (UK)
- Ford Capri XL Automatic. Colin Mossie. Fords of the 1970's (UK)
- Mk1 Ford Capri RS 3100 / 2600. Colin Mossie.
- Firstcar Illustrations | Personalized Car Illustrations. Colin Mossie.
- 1976 Ford Escort Mk2 Mexico. Colin Mossie.
- #Ford Capri. Colin Mossie.
- Mk4 Ford Cortina Estate. Colin Mossie.
How many Ford Capri's are left in the UK?
There are 1,896 FORD CAPRI left in the UK with an MOT. 0.0061% of all UK vehicles are FORD CAPRI. Vehicle data is updated in near real-time as they pass & fail MOT tests.
What was the Ford Capri called in America?
But Capri's many fans in America were less clear about what banner it drove for. Was it a Ford? Ford dealers in the States already had a sporty coupe to sell. They called it the Mustang…and rumor had it, it was doing pretty well.
What cars did Ford make in the 70s in the UK?
Fords of the 1970's (UK)
- Ford Capri XL Automatic. Colin Mossie. Fords of the 1970's (UK)
- Mk1 Ford Capri RS 3100 / 2600. Colin Mossie.
- Firstcar Illustrations | Personalized Car Illustrations. Colin Mossie.
- 1976 Ford Escort Mk2 Mexico. Colin Mossie.
- #Ford Capri. Colin Mossie.
- Mk4 Ford Cortina Estate. Colin Mossie.
What was the first Ford car in the UK?
1903–1918. The first Ford cars, three Model As, were imported into the UK in 1903, and the first dealership opened in Southampton in November 1910.
Are any Fords made in UK?
Ford built its last vehicle in the UK, a Transit van, at Southampton in 2013, 102 years after the first Ford came off a UK production line. Today, to choose a Ford is no more buying British than going for a Volkswagen, Toyota, Renault or many other brands.
When did the Ford Capri come out in the UK?
The Capri would be launched at the Brussels motor show in January 1969, although production at the Halewood plant in Liverpool had actually begun two months earlier to ensure that every UK dealer could have at least one Capri on its forecourt by the time sales started in February 1970.
What was the last car designed by Ford of Britain?
The Zephyr was the last car to be independently designed by Ford of Britain; closer integration with Ford-Werke of Cologne had already started with both the Transit and Escort, and the replacement Consul/Granada would be a genuine pan-European effort.
Is the Ford Capri British?
The range continued to be broadened, with another 3.0 variant, the Capri 3000E introduced from the British plant in March 1970, offering "more luxurious interior trim".
What is the most sold Ford in the UK?
Ford Puma – 2,478 sold
The Ford Puma was the UK's bestselling car in 2023, and 2024, so it's a shock to see it so low in 2025. We can see why it's so popular, too.
