Ford Capri MkIII 1.6 Laser

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Launched at the 1969 Brussels Motor Show, the Capri instantly became the most desirable model in Ford’s European range and was every thrusting young executive’s dream set of wheels.

With its aggressively long bonnet and swooping rear it looked like it was doing 100mph even when standing still. Conceived as a European alternative to the all-conquering Mustang, it was available in a wide range of engine sizes from a basic 1.3-litre four to a tarmac-ripping 3-litre V6.

Mechanically straightforward, a traditional live axle with leaf springs was deemed sufficient at the rear, while Ford's excellent Macpherson struts at the front and well weighted rack-and-pinion steering gave it a sufficiently sporting feel to justify its sports car looks.

In 1974 the MkII version was introduced with a shorter bonnet, larger cabin and a more practical hatchback in place of the boot. Mechanically it was similar to the MkI but with a Pinto OHC engine in place of the old Kent crossflow OHV unit plus bigger front disc brakes and a standard alternator. A re-styled MkIII followed in 1978, easily distinguished by its quad headlamps and rear boot spoiler.

Supplied new by Soans of Leamington in November 1985, this MkIII 1.6 Laser has had just three owners from new and has been in the current ownership since 2000. It has covered only 87,072 miles to date, backed up by various old MOTs and invoices and the original service book which shows 12 stamps up to 69,290 miles in 1996. In storage from 2000 – 2008, it has since been treated to various new parts including brake calipers and master cylinder, front wheel bearings, water pump, new oil and filter etc.

Rust-proofed from new, it remains in remarkably original condition throughout with good panel gaps, even retaining the original Rosso Red paint code sticker in the boot floor. Riding on a set of period-correct four-spoke alloys (including the spare), it also has a factory-fitted steel sunroof. Starting instantly and running nicely as we moved it around for these photos, it has an MOT until June 2020 with only two minor advisories.