This Ford Capri RS2600 is believed to be one of three factory pre-production cars, upgraded from 2300 GT specification, and subsequently owned by enthusiasts in Germany, Switzerland, and the UK. Over the last 10 years, it has been extensively restored, featuring a fully rebuilt Cologne V6, and now is in superb condition.

• Believed to be one of just three pre-production RS2600s, recorded as having been upgraded to the correct specification in June 1970.

• Under the bonnet is a 2.6-litre naturally aspirated V6, coupled to a four-speed close-ratio manual transmission with synchromesh.

• Initially registered in Germany and later Switzerland, this Capri was brought to the UK and later re-registered in April 2011 following a restoration. It has had two prior UK keepers since then.

• Subject of a magazine feature in the June 2015 issue of Classic Ford.

History

• While the chassis number corresponds to a 2300 GT, it is thought that this is one of a few cars taken from the production line to be modified to RS2600 specification as part of the pre-production programme.

• The car was discovered by an Oxfordshire-based engineer around 12 years ago, and subsequently passed to an enthusiast who commissioned an extensive restoration, returning the RS back to superb overall condition.

• This process involved replacing a correct QZA-code engine with another 2.3-litre GT Cologne V6 block, fitted with a long-throw crank and enlarged to 2.6 litres.

• It then passed to another ‘fast Ford’ fan, who attended to some minor snagging issues, with electronic ignition fitted by Capri specialist Tickover, who also tuned the Kugelfischer injection system.

• Various RS2600-specific items have been sourced in the years since. With the reported pre-production history, it is perhaps not surprising that some smaller items differed from production cars. However, components such as the German-model Capri switches have been soured and fitted, along with various clips and fixings.

• Accompanying the car is an excellent history file of paperwork, some dating back to the 1970s, along with handbooks. A copy of the June 2015 issue of Classic Ford magazine, featuring this car, is also included.

• There is no known prior bodywork damage.

• Its paintwork is in good condition, as shown in the detailed photos

• It is currently fitted with Scheel seats, believed to be from a later post-1973 model, which are in good order, showing no significant wear or damage.