German Ford: 1971 Mercury Capri 2000

Early Capri projects rarely retain all the small pieces that can make restoration so difficult, but the seller says this 1971 example remains complete. Built by Ford-Werke in Cologne, Germany, it left the factory in Sapphire Blue Poly with a 2.0-liter engine and 4-speed manual transmission. The car has reportedly been off the road for about 36 years and is listed on eBay in Van Alstyne, Texas, where bidding currently sits at $975 with no bids.

The Capri’s long hood, compact dimensions, rear-wheel drive, and fastback roofline gave American buyers a distinctly European alternative to the usual pony car. This one carries the desirable 2000 engine and manual gearbox, while a vinyl roof and air conditioning were apparently added after it arrived in the United States. The seller rescued the car from an Oklahoma towing company several years ago, fitted Porsche 924 wheels so it could be moved, and has stored it indoors since.

Its Sapphire Blue paint is heavily weathered, and most of the vinyl top has deteriorated, but the Capri’s handsome shape remains easy to appreciate. The bumpers, lights, emblems, glass trim, and much of the brightwork are still present. Unfortunately, the windshield is broken, both rear wheel openings show old repairs and rust, and the doors show some rust-through. The seller reports that the cowl base, door jambs, and most of the trunk remain solid, although the spare-tire well has a hole and the battery tray is nearly gone.

Inside, originality and completeness again work in the Capri’s favor. The woodgrain instrument panel, Capri steering wheel, 4-speed shifter, door panels, rear seat, and front buckets remain. However, the dash pad is badly cracked, and the upholstery is split and crumbling. The engine compartment still contains the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder and air-conditioning hardware, but the seller has not attempted to turn the engine and expects it may be seized. The condition of the transmission and rear axle is unknown, although the car reportedly rolls easily.

This is unquestionably a major undertaking, with rust in the front footwells, extensive underbody surface rust, and nearly every system needing attention. It will also be sold with a bill of sale only, but it’s worth investigating why the listing also shows the title as branded “Flood, Water Damage.” Even so, its early production, German construction, 2.0-liter/4-speed combination, and unusual completeness give it genuine appeal as either an ambitious restoration or a remarkably useful donor. Does this Mk1 Capri deserve to return to the road, or is its best future helping another one survive?