In 1978 Mercury was ready to retire its first-generation Capri and was looking for a worthy replacement. The Capri was designed by Ford of Europe and constructed in their Cologne, Germany factory to compete in the sport compact market. It was a success abroad, and as Ford of North America was looking to compete with European touring cars under their Mercury subdivision, they began modifying and importing the German Ford Capri. It was a success, but as the 70s came to an end, so did the first-generation Capri. Its successor was another modified Ford but, this time, built in the United States. The Fox Body Mustang was a revelation for Ford. All enthusiasts welcomed a return to the model's Pony Car roots, and the third-generation Mustang became an instant classic. It was also the platform on which the second-generation Mercury Capri would be built. The Capri, like the Mustang, was a success. It offered a range of engine configurations and trim levels, but none were as sought-after as the RS Turbo.
The car offered is a rare, first-year 1979 Mercury Capri Turbo RS. It has been in the care of its original owner since new and shows just 15,407 miles. The turbocharged 2.3-liter engine is in fantastic mechanical condition and propels the Capri forward with the same excitement it would have in 1979. It sends power through a 4-speed manual transmission to a limited-slip differential. The car is finished in black paint over a tan interior and features its original pinstriping, decals, and badging specific to the Turbo RS. The Capri Turbo RS shares its chassis and drivetrain with the Mustang SVO, but with unique European-inspired bodywork and increased interior luxury. The result is a true American performance machine with the styling and amenities to compete with the best European touring cars on offer in the early 1980s.
