1986 Ford Capri 2.0 Laser – Project Profile

It should come as no surprise to any of you reading this today that we absolutely adore the Ford Capri here at Car & Classic. We’ve had quite a few between us over the years and we’ve written extensively about the marque. A quick search for “Capri” on our mag tells you all you need to know and that’s not to mention the almost 100 various models we have for sale at the time of writing, including numerous iterations of the Ford Capri 2.0 Laser.

It’s not just us though. You lot love a Capri too, if our search data is anything to go by. Someone recently referred to one of Ford’s finest as the ‘Dagenham Dustbin’ (and we’re not going to lie, it did make us chuckle) but despite any negative connotations the car may have endured over its life it has successfully and confidently emerged as a true icon and one of the most beloved of all the Blue Oval models.

For those still in doubt then we urge you to watch our Five Reasons Why You Should Buy video on our YouTube channel. Whether it be an original, clean Mk I, a ratty 2.8i or a record breaking Brooklands the allure of the Capri is endearing, and indeed enduring and there is a Capri for every budget. Most of us may not be able to afford the aforementioned pristine Brooklands models or a track-prepped RS2600 but there are certainly options out there for the less, how shall we say, financially advantaged. Models, for example, like this 2.0-Litre Mk III Laser.

What is it?

This 1986 Ford Capri 2.0 Laser, a designation that denotes a specific level of trim, is one such car that is perhaps more attainable for the masses. Included in the very ’80s ‘Laser’ moniker is a full compliment of dash gauges, a leather gear knob and steering wheel, four-spoke alloy wheels from the ‘S’ and colour-coded grille and mirrors, as well as an electric aerial. Posh.

Equipped with Ford’s 2.0-litre, four-cylinder Pinto engine, which was good back in the ’80s for over 110mph flat out and a sub 10second 0-60 dash, it’s a decent spec in the grand scheme of Capri models. With this 100 or so brake horsepower engine driving the rear wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox and live rear axle there’s still plenty of fun to be had here. The beauty of this particular project is the fact that it’s a no reserve auction which means the potential for bargain bidding is high. Interested? Yep, we thought so.

Why is it a project? 

Now here lies the rub. This particular Ford Capri 2.0 Laser has been off the road and SORN for around 15 years. The good news, however, is that it has been dry stored during that time, keeping it safe from the horrible British weather and all of the rusty problems that that entails. From the myriad pictures included in the listing the all important chassis rails and strut tops look to be unaffected, which is good news but the car will obviously require a full mechanical overhaul before any attempt is made to run it.

Five things to look for:

1) Rust
As touched upon above, the Capri’s Achilles heal is it’s penchant for turning into iron filings but this one does appear to have good bones. Having sad that it’s still important to check the usual suspects; front wings, around the headlamps and the A-pillars are particularly susceptible but a full inspection will save you heartache and, perhaps more importantly, money.

2) Engine
The 2.0-litre Pinto is a hardy lump and simple to work on and maintain but because this car has been sitting for quite some time a more general inspection is warranted. Handily, we’ve written a guide on the topic.

3) Drivetrain
Check for any nasty noises from the gearbox, especially when changing into second gear and if operating the thing is more akin to stirring porridge then the bushings will need replacing. Diffs are generally pretty hardy but the oil does need to be regularly changed so check to see if this is the case.

4) Steering and Suspension
The steering is a pretty simple affair and therefore inherently reliable but check for leaky or worn dampers and bushings and at the rear have a look for any listing to either side, indicative of worn or even cracked leaf springs. Replacement parts are readily and cheaply available, however.

5) Interior
This Capri still wears its original interior, even down to the surviving parcel shelf, which is a rare thing these days. Despite some wear to the driver’s seat bolster it all appears to be in pretty good shape but check for any missing bits and bobs and make sure everything works as it should.

What should you do with it? 

We’ve waxed lyrical in the past about the urge to go down the engine swap route when it comes to old Fords but in this case that’s exactly what we would do. Our choice would be a Cosworth BOA lump out of a Granada (or possibly the later BOB from the Scorpio Cosworth, depending on availability) and get it running on an after market ECU.

Obviously this would also mean better brakes and suspension but depending on what price the car sells for (it is a no reserve listing don’t forget) you may have a bit of budget to play with when it comes to mods. As long as the body and chassis are as solid as they seem of course…