Celebrating 50 Years of the Ford Capri Mk2: A Timeless Icon
As the Ford Capri Mk2 turns 50, this iconic sports coupe continues to captivate enthusiasts. Once a symbol of sophistication and style, the Ghia model is now a rare gem, evoking memories of a bygone era.
The Capri Mk2’s allure wasn’t just in its features like the vinyl roof, Rialto nylon upholstery, sliding roof, alloy wheels, or high-backed front seats. It was the Ghia badge that truly set it apart, representing elegance and a sense of chic, perfect for a Friday night out. The Mk2 was also the first British Ford to carry the Ghia name, a legacy inherited from Ford’s acquisition of Carrozzeria Ghia in 1972.
Trend-setting aesthetics...
Before the Ghia, Ford’s top-tier models bore the ‘E’ for Executive, such as the Zodiac Mk3. By 1972, premium versions of the Granada and the original Capri were sold as GXLs. The Capri Mk2 Ghia, launched on February 25, 1974, marked a refined evolution of its predecessor. With deeper windows and a sleeker tail-end design, it was praised for its versatile and trend-setting aesthetics.
The introduction of the hatchback was a notable first for a British Ford, though some enthusiasts missed the original Capri’s sporty detailing. To reinforce the Mk2’s macho image, a 3.0 GT version was featured in a high-speed chase in the film Brannigan, driven by John Wayne.
A coach-built aura
The initial Mk2 lineup included the 1300L, 1600L, XL, GT, and the 2000GT and 3000GT. On May 1, 1974, the Ghia model was introduced, priced at £2,395 for the 2.0-litre and £2,609 for the 3.0-litre. Despite its luxurious appeal, some drivers preferred the GT for its better visibility and less claustrophobic seating.
Among domestic competitors, the MGB GT V8 and the Reliant Scimitar GTE were notable rivals, with the Scimitar sharing the same ‘Essex’ V6 engine but costing more. Ford aimed to imbue the Capri Ghia with a coach-built aura, even though it was mass-produced in Halewood.
Automatic Shift...in location
In 1976, automatic transmission became standard on the Ghia, and by October, all Capri production moved to Cologne, Germany. The Capri Ghia gained further fame when it appeared in the TV series The Professionals in 1977, driven by Lewis Collins’ character.
Suits you...
This metallic green 1976 Capri Ghia, sold by Praters of Leighton Buzzard, epitomises why it was perfect for both the successful sales manager and the action hero.
With the arrival of the Capri Mk3 in March 1978, the Mk2’s production ended after 568,357 units. Today, the Capri Ghia is a rare sight, a relic of ‘Man’s Book Club’ era, embodying ‘super luxury, super performance.’