The Australian built Ford Capri (no similarity to the British Capri) was
built from 1989 to 1994 and sold in the US as the Mercury Capri. The Capri
was like Ford Australia's modern day answer to the MGB,in that it was
designed from day one to be a convertible and was not just a modified
sedan. However, unlike the MGB the Australian built Ford Capri is front
wheel drive.
The vehicle was built in both lhd and rhd variants to satisfy a number of
markets.
The absolute classic Capri, codenamed the Capri Clubsprint, was only sold
in Australia as the cost of certification for the US market was prohibitive
for this specialist vehicle.
Ford, being a multinational company, kept the Australian built Capri out of
Europe as it was perceived as a threat to the Escort convertible and
thought likely to steal sales.
Just thought some of your subscribers might like to hear about this
Australian built convertible 'sports car'. This is not a plug for the Ford
Company, but rather a plug for Australian built vehicles. The Capri is no
longer made or sold. Production ceased in 1994. I hope I haven't offended
anyone by posting this information. Variety is the spice of life:).
Regards,
pauletc.
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