We’ve featured several Fox body Capris in the past, but never an early turbocharged version.
These had nowhere near the output of the later Mustang SVOs, but were entertaining in their day when you could keep them running. Also, by 1980, Ford had temporarily killed off the beloved 302 V8 and replaced it with the much-maligned 255, which was not regarded as a performance engine. These turbo fours some detonation and turbocharger oiling issues that caused Ford to cancel this “pull through carb” turbo engine and replace it a few years later with a fuel injected version that had much improved reliability and output; but, kept running, this was THE performance choice for a Mustang or Capri in 1980.
This example claims remarkably low miles and has the looks to back it up. TRX wheels mean expensive tire replacements, but we can pretty much guarantee you’ll be the only one at your local cruise-in if you buy this bad boy. It’s a somewhat bright spot in a dark period for the Mustang and Capri. The Mercury badging just adds to the oddness, which we love.
Click for eBay ad
Plainwell, MI
$2,025 with 7 bids and reserve not met
Posted by CG
This looks pretty much like a Mustang except for the more ‘formal’ front end and groovy hood.
Yes, turbo labeling had started by 1980…
Interior is 1980 cool and condition appears to be amazing. Three pedals are a good sign and crank windows keep it real.
Weight distribution was better with a four and performance was better than with the boat anchor 255 V8, which, incidentally, was not offered with a clutch pedal. Still, don’t expect a lot of stoplight drag victories with about 130 HP moving about 3,000 pounds.
Ad text:
Up for auction is my 1980 Mercury Capri RS Turbo. This car has 50,xxx original miles, and I am the third owner. This car has original paint, and is unmodified, with the exception of the fact that the original tail pipe rotted at one point, and the exhaust has a turn down at the muffler. The underside is very clean, no rust or rot what so ever. The car runs and drives nicely. The interior is immaculate. I would give it a literal 10/10.
It has a very small exhaust leak at the flange on the outlet of the exhaust manifold. So small in fact that you really only hear it if you are under the hood. There is also a heat shield on the catalytic converter that sometimes rattles. It’s a great car, rare, turns heads, and is just a lot of fun to take for a drive.
The car was stored for many years, but was driven a few hundred miles a year. The car has new plugs, wires, and starter. I have the original starter, spark plugs, and wires, as well as the original catalytic converter for the car. The carburetor may benefit from a rebuild from not being driven much, however the car starts, idles and drives well right now. I think a carb rebuild might give it more “punch.” Great example of an early fox body. I cannot express how well preserved this car is! I also have the build sheet, and marti report for the car, as well as some documents from previous owners. Any questions, just ask.
I will be willing to assist in shipping, as far as helping to load the vehicle, and see it’s safely on it’s way with the shipper of your choice, or come pick it up, and drive it home!