Michael Riley's Blog: Hemmings Find of the Day

Monday, September 28, 2015

Hemmings Find of the Day – 1973 Mercury Capri

Those shopping for a sporty coupe from the blue oval brand and its affiliates in the early 1970s weren’t limited to the Mustang or Cougar. Introduced in Europe as a Mustang alternative, the Ford Capri made it back across the Atlantic to be sold through Mercury dealers, pitched to buyers who cared more about style and handling than straight line speed. Once a common sight on college campuses and race tracks across America, Capris have become something of an endangered species, with many falling victim to rust over the decades. This 1973 Mercury Capri, for sale on Hemmings.com, is said to be completely rust-free, at least since the outer rockers, front valence and portions of the rear quarter panels have been replaced with new steel. It’s been repainted in the original shade of red, too, and its 2.0-liter four was removed, detailed and tuned. Only the interior has been left for the next owner to address, but even in its current state the Capri appears to be a better than average driver. From the seller’s description:

This 1973 Capri is completely rust free. Originally the outer rockers, front valance and around the rear quarter wheel wells contained rusted areas. All have been repaired with new metal. The original floor and truck are in perfect condition. It has professionally applied new paint in the original color. This is the first time the car has been painted since new. A list of new or rebuilt items include the rack and pinion, new clutch assembly, windshield, complete exhaust, carburetor. front calipers, heater motor, battery, right interior door panel, carpet and many small items. As you can see from the pics the exterior of the car is in very nice presentable condition. The engine was removed, and detailed. Once replaced it was professionally tuned and runs very well. There are some small dings in the trim which was professionally polished but a ding is a ding.

The interior still needs improvement. Things were done to make it more presentable like a dash cover, repaired seats and new carpet. What needs to be done at some point is the dash should be sent out for a professional recovering, the cover is ok but a poor fit. Replace the rear and driver side seat belts. The radio is just AM. Because of the speaker holes being covered by the new cover I installed a speaker in the rear window. An additional speaker is available in case the new owner upgrades the radio and wants stereo. I have a lift so If you wish to inspect the vehicle’s under carriage just email me and we can schedule a time. The Capri has been state inspected and tagged so it is available for a test drive. Please specify any additional pics you made need. There are additional parts that will be included.