1970 FORD CAPRI RS 2600

KEY FACTS

• Believed to be one of just three pre-production RS2600s, recorded as having been upgraded to the correct specification in June 1970.
• Under the bonnet is a 2.6-litre naturally aspirated V6, coupled to a four-speed close-ratio manual transmission with synchromesh.
• Initially registered in Germany and later Switzerland, this Capri was brought to the UK and later re-registered in April 2011 following a restoration. It has had two prior UK keepers since then.
• Subject of a magazine feature in the June 2015 issue of Classic Ford.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• While the chassis number corresponds to a 2300 GT, it is thought that this is one of a few cars taken from the production line to be modified to RS2600 specification as part of the pre-production programme.
• The car was discovered by an Oxfordshire-based engineer around 12 years ago, and subsequently passed to an enthusiast who commissioned an extensive restoration, returning the RS back to superb overall condition.
• This process involved replacing a correct QZA-code engine with another 2.3-litre GT Cologne V6 block, fitted with a long-throw crank and enlarged to 2.6 litres.
• It then passed to another ‘fast Ford’ fan, who attended to some minor snagging issues, with electronic ignition fitted by Capri specialist Tickover, who also tuned the Kugelfischer injection system.
• Various RS2600-specific items have been sourced in the years since. With the reported pre-production history, it is perhaps not surprising that some smaller items differed from production cars. However, components such as the German-model Capri switches have been soured and fitted, along with various clips and fixings.
• Accompanying the car is an excellent history file of paperwork, some dating back to the 1970s, along with handbooks. A copy of the June 2015 issue of Classic Ford magazine, featuring this car, is also included.

CONDITION

• There is no known prior bodywork damage.
• Its paintwork is in good condition, as shown in the detailed photo gallery below. The vendor does note some delamination of the windscreen.
• It is currently fitted with Scheel seats, believed to be from a later post-1973 model, which are in good order, showing no significant wear or damage.
• While some of the switchgear is worn, there are no known electrical faults.
• The most recent MOT test was on 23 May 2018 at 59,784 miles, which resulted in a first-time pass with advisories for wear to both rear tyres, and the nearside front tyre inner edge. It is exempt from mandatory testing on the basis of age.

SUMMARY

This Ford Capri RS2600 is believed to be one of three factory pre-production cars, upgraded from 2300 GT specification, and subsequently owned by enthusiasts in Germany, Switzerland, and the UK. Over the last 10 years, it has been extensively restored, featuring a fully rebuilt Cologne V6, and now presents in very good order.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.