FORD CAPRI

With us at RFH Classics we are delighted to offer this quite exceptional 1985 (C) Ford Capri 1.6 Laser Hatch finished in the striking factory shade of Lacquer Red and complemented by its original Grey Cloth interior. Representing the closing chapter of the Capri story, this example stands out not only for its condition but also for its rarity, provenance and level of preservation. Most notably, this Capri is a genuine two owner car from new, only passing to its second keeper in early 2024. Such limited low ownership is increasingly rare among surviving Capris and immediately sets this car apart from the rest and we haven’t even mentioned the full body restoration yet.

Just completed, the car has been the subject of a comprehensive body restoration carried out by a well respected local specialist, during which time the shell was stripped back to bare metal prior to the commencement of works. The car was loaded to an rotisserie where all the necessary metal corrections were undertaken before being repainted to its original factory spec colour of Lacquer Red with a truly amazing finish that helps restore the car’s original character. The interior remains largely as it was supplied new and is in excellent condition baring a few very minor patina marks. The end result is a Capri that looks exactly as Ford intended, sharp and crisp without appearing over-restored.

Uber the sleek curves of the bonnet sits the matching number 1598 cc petrol 4 cylinder engine running lead free. This was completely overhauled during the body restoration to now provide an engine bay that is equally as spectacular as the exterior of the car. Accompanying the car is a superb and unusually complete history file, now professionally presented within one of our RFH Classics History Folders. Within the file we hold a chronological MOT record dating back to 1992, with only a small number missing during periods when the car was in storage. In addition, there is an extensive collection of service and maintenance invoices which help confirm the car’s 80,954 miles and are predominantly from the same service garage that cared for the car during the original lady owner’s long term ownership, documenting regular annual servicing from 1992 through to the present day.

A particularly pleasing feature of the history has to be the survival of the original Zenith Ford of Stevenage order form, retained within the original Zenith Ford document wallet. This includes the Capri Operating Guide, Extra Cover Warranty Application, Audio Guide and the original Pre-Delivery Inspection Checklist. Further period items include the original wheel locking nut still housed in its pouch, along with a wonderful run of historic tax discs, all combining to give a remarkably complete picture of careful long-term ownership.

By the mid 1980s the Ford Capri had firmly established itself as Britain’s best loved sporting coupé, blending everyday usability with unmistakable style. Introduced in 1969 and famously marketed as “the car you always promised yourself”, the Capri evolved through three generations, with the later Mk III models representing the most refined and usable versions of the breed. Introduced in 1984, the Capri Laser was conceived as a well equipped, value focused final edition, combining proven mechanicals with enhanced comfort and cosmetic detailing. The Laser quickly became one of the most popular late Capri variants, featuring distinctive badging, improved interior trim and a level of factory equipment rarely seen on earlier models. Many Laser models, including this example, featured a factory steel sunroof and four spoke alloy wheels, both desirable period features that enhance the Capri’s sporting character.

As production drew to a close in 1986, models such as the Laser represented the final opportunity to buy a Capri new, making well preserved examples increasingly sought after today. This particular car combines exceptionally low ownership, a fresh bare metal body restoration and a level of documented provenance rarely encountered, all presented in an attractive and period-correct colour combination. This Ford Capri that will appeal equally to the enthusiast, collector or anyone seeking a genuinely usable modern classic that remains instantly recognisable and deeply nostalgic.

RFH Classics are proud to be Bedfordshire’s largest independent classic car dealer, with over 35 years of experience supplying high quality vehicles you can buy with confidence. Known for our excellent reputation and great customer reviews, you can trust RFH Classics for your next vehicle purchase. We welcome visitors to our showroom, but please call ahead on 01462 338755, as we are sometimes off-site collecting vehicles.

Included in the screen price, we supply all vehicles with a 3-month major mechanical warranty. The car is clear of finance and insurance damage and comes with a certificate of clearance on handover. While we recommend premium unleaded fuel for all our classics, modern vehicles such as this Mini will also benefit from it. If you’re unable to visit us, UK delivery is available, just ask for a quote. We also handle export and are happy to assist. Visit www.rfhclassics.co.uk to view our walk-around videos and the rest of our stock.

Call us today and let us help turn your classic and modern-classic motoring dreams into reality.

Thank you, Richard.

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