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Ford Capri 2.8i 1982 review

Coupe Petrol
Ford Capri 2.8i 1982 — front three-quarter view

Photo: Calreyn88 (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons

Overview

The Capri 2.8i is the definitive version of Ford's European coupe: the silky Cologne V6 with Bosch fuel injection, 160bhp, and the seven-spoke RS alloys that still look perfect today. For a generation of British drivers this was the poster car — and values have been climbing as good ones grow scarce.

The driving experience is old-school in the best way. The V6 sounds glorious, the rear-wheel-drive chassis is adjustable and entertaining, and 0-60mph in under eight seconds still feels lively. The 1982 cars have the four-speed gearbox; the five-speed arrived in 1984.

Rust is the enemy, as with all Capris. Check the strut tops, inner wings, sills, rear arches and the area around the fuel filler. The Cologne V6 is a tough engine, but the K-Jetronic injection needs a specialist if it plays up, and many cars have been modified — originality increasingly commands a premium.

UK price from: £14,995

Specifications

Engine2.8L Cologne V6 petrol (2792cc)
Power160 bhp @ 5,700 rpm
0-60 mph7.9 seconds
Top speed127 mph (204 km/h)
Production years1969-1986 (2.8i from 1981)
Transmission4-speed manual
DriveRear-wheel drive
Kerb weight1,190 kg
Fuel economy~27 mpg (approx.)
Torque220 Nm @ 4,200 rpm

Features

  • 2.8-litre Cologne V6 with Bosch K-Jetronic injection
  • 160bhp at 5,700rpm
  • 4-speed manual gearbox
  • Rear-wheel drive, live rear axle
  • Seven-spoke RS alloy wheels
  • Sports seats and sports steering wheel
  • Colour-coded grille and headlamp surrounds
  • Ventilated front disc brakes

Common parts & prices

PartPrice (GBP)Notes
Front brake pads (set)£32.99Ventilated front discs on the 2.8i
Clutch kit£109.99Includes release bearing
Fuel filter£21.99For Bosch K-Jetronic injection
Exhaust rear box£94.99Standard mild-steel replacement
Front wing (pattern)£159.99Rust-prone area; check fit before painting
Water pump£44.99Change with the cambelt-era service schedule

Prices are typical UK aftermarket/OEM guide prices and may vary by supplier.

Pros

  • Glorious V6 soundtrack and strong performance
  • Iconic status — the definitive Capri
  • Tough, simple mechanicals
  • Values rising for good original cars

Cons

  • Serious rust spots: strut tops, sills, arches
  • K-Jetronic needs specialist knowledge
  • Many modified or poorly restored examples
  • Thirsty — expect low-20s mpg in town

Frequently asked questions

How much is a Capri 2.8i worth?
A good usable 1982 2.8i typically sells for £12,000-£18,000. Exceptional original cars exceed £20,000, while the final 280 'Brooklands' models command much more.
What should I check when buying?
Strut tops, inner front wings, sills, rear wheel arches and around the fuel filler flap. Also check the injection system runs cleanly from cold and the gearbox doesn't whine.
Is the Cologne V6 reliable?
Yes — it is a tough, long-lived engine if serviced. The weak points are the K-Jetronic fuel injection (needs a specialist) and cooling system neglect.
4-speed or 5-speed — does it matter?
The five-speed (from 1984) is nicer on motorways, but the 1982 four-speed cars are the purer early 2.8i experience. Either is fine; condition matters more.
Are parts hard to find?
Mechanical parts are straightforward via Ford specialists. Body panels and trim are the challenge — good wings and doors are worth their weight in gold.

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