Ford Capri (Australia)
| Industry | Automotive |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | Australia |
| Products | Automobiles |
The Ford Capri (SA30) was manufactured by Ford Australia between 1989 and 1994, bringing back the Ford Capri designation that had previously been used by Ford of Europe from 1969 to 1986 and by Ford USA's Mercury Division from 1979 to 1986.
Known internally as the SA30, this Australian Capri served as an entry-level convertible utilizing Mazda 323 powertrains and mechanical components shared with the Ford Laser. The vehicle's exterior was crafted by Ghia, while its cabin design was handled by ItalDesign. During its creation, Mazda was developing the Mazda MX-5, a costlier model often regarded as a direct rival. Unlike the MX-5's pure two-seat configuration, the Capri offered a 2+2 seating arrangement.
History
Primarily intended for export to the United States, the Australian-built Capri was sold there starting in 1991 under the Mercury Capri name. Early on, it gained a reputation for reliability issues, particularly due to roof leaks caused by inferior materials. Although Ford quickly resolved these problems, the negative image lingered.[1] The front-wheel-drive layout was less appealing to American enthusiasts compared to the rear-wheel-drive Mazda MX-5, which ultimately achieved greater popularity in that market.[1]
At launch, two variants were available: a base model equipped with a 1.6 L B6-2E SOHC inline-four producing , and a turbocharged version powered by a 1.6 L B6T DOHC inline-four delivering .[2] The base model came with either a 5-speed manual or a 3-speed automatic transmission, while the turbocharged version was offered only with a manual gearbox.[2] In 1990, a naturally aspirated 1.6 L B6D DOHC engine producing was introduced and became the exclusive engine option in 1991.[3][4]
A facelift in 1992 (codenamed SC) brought back the turbocharged engine option.[5] Alongside this update, the XR2 trim level was launched for both engines, and base trims were renamed Barchetta (naturally aspirated) and Clubsprint (turbocharged).[5] Another revision occurred in 1993, identified by the SE codename.[6] Production ended in 1994 after a total of 66,279 units had been built, including 10,347 right-hand-drive cars destined for Oceania and Southeast Asian markets. Of these RHD vehicles, Australia accounted for 9,787 sales; the rest were exported to New Zealand and Southeast Asia.[7]
Crash tests conducted in 2006 rated the occupant protection of the 1989–94 Capri as "worse than average."[8]
References
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