In other blog articles, we have mentioned that the beauty of a vehicle is often in the eye of the beholder. There are various iconic cars that have been manufactured over the years, but I have to admit that my own personal favourite is the 70’s superstar, the Ford Capri.
Introducing the Ford Capri: An Instant Hit in 1969
It’s the late 60’s, and the Ford Motor Company are looking to come up with a European alternative to the hugely popular muscle cars, such as the Ford Mustang, that were being manufactured across the pond in the USA. The result of this undertaking, the Ford Capri, was introduced to the world at the Brussels Motor Show in 1969, and it was an instant hit.
Throughout the 1970s, the Ford Capri cemented itself into British Automotive history and became an iconic symbol of freedom and adventure. Assisted by its affordable price tag, stylish design and sporty performance, the Capri was a hit across the board, from young car enthusiasts to families who wanted a bit of excitement alongside their practical automotive needs.
Ford Capri MKII: A Major Redesign That Took the World by Storm
In 1974, Ford decided to give the Capri a major redesign with the introduction of the MKII. This new design featured a more streamlined design, shorter bonnet and larger cabin, in fact it was the first Ford to feature a hatchback boot. This new adaptation was a hit with drivers, making it even more popular than before.
The MKIII arrived four years later, with another facelift of updated styling giving improved aerodynamics resulting in improved economy and performance compared to the MK II. Throughout the 80’s however, there was a decline in Capri sales, somewhat due to Ford’s own success with the launch of the Fiesta XR2, Escort XR3 and Sierra XR4, which all sold well.
The Capri’s place in the Iconic British Car Hall of Fame was helped by it’s use in cult television programs in the 70’s and 80’s. Most notably, a MKII model was the preferred vehicle of choice for Bodie and Doyle in the crime series The Professionals, and on the other side of the law Terry McCann, played by Dennis Waterman, had a white Capri in which drive around whilst acting as “Minder” to George Cole’s Arthur Daley.
Ford Capri – The End of an Era
As the car market changed, and competition from other manufacturers as well as within Ford itself with the introduction of other car models, production of the Ford Capri ceased in 1986. Despite this relatively short production run, compared to other models by Ford and other manufacturers, the Ford Capri has left a lasting impact in automotive history.
Today, enthusiasts are still collecting and restoring Ford Capris, although parts can be difficult to find. They do also come with common issues, such as rust and electrical problems, so can become a money pit for maintenance and repair bills.
Despite this, the Ford Capri continues to capture the hearts and imaginations of car enthusiasts, and remains a beloved and iconic example of British car manufacturing. The work legend is probably overused, but in my opinion, when discussing the Ford Capri, it is very, very relevant.
Shipping a Ford Capri to Australia via Ro/Ro
One such enthusiastic Ford Capri owner is Gavin. Originally from the UK, Gavin emigrated to Australia for a new life, but still kept in mind the poster of a 2.8 Injection Special Ford Capri he had on his wall as an 11 year old in 1986. As he puts it, a “council estate Ferrari”.
Now living in Sydney, on a visit home to his mum, Gavin decided that now “it was only fitting that I purchased one of these classics to bring back home to Sydney”. He continued to tell us that “the process was very smooth (bar the quarantine clearance period)”
He opted for our Ro/Ro, Roll-on Roll-off car shipping service, which entails vehicles being driven onto the vessel via a loading ramp, and safely secured under decks. Once arriving at the destination country, the vehicles are simply driven off again. This enables the loading and unloading of a large number of vehicles in the shortest amount of time possible, compared to containerised shipping services.
Gavin tells us that his “lovely Capri has settles into Sydney life very well” and the shipping process was a “great experience end to end and all parties helpful. So much so I’m starting to think of what next I can bring over from the UK”
Autoshippers – The Car Shipping Specialists
Whatever car, motorbike or other type of vehicle Gavin decides to give a new home in Australia next, you can be sure that Autoshippers has a service option to meet his needs. Whether via Ro/Ro, shared container or dedicated container, we have options to meet all budgets, including a nationwide UK collection service and a choice of three marine insurance policies.
If you have moved overseas and pine for a slice of iconic British car history, or have never lived in the UK but have coveted a certain classic car model from afar for many years, simply request a quote on our website or contact us at Autoshippers and we can help with your shipping needs.
You can also call us on +44 117 982 8123 / 0800 389 0784 or fill out our contact form if you have any questions about shipping a car from the UK. Our dedicated and knowledgeable team can help with shipping options and costs to meet your needs.
