History
When the Capri was launched in 1969 I was 20 years old and worked at C.P. Evinsons, Ford Main dealership in Mansfield, Notts.
“The car you always promised yourself” Ford said and I thought, “One day I will have one”. Over the years I’ve owned and moved on just 4 but:-
THE Car
WEA 83S. Mk2 Ford Capri 1.6 GL, Oyster Gold. Is here to stay.
- Built in November 1977
- First registered December 9th 1977 (Someone’s Christmas present maybe?) In Dudley, West Midlands.
- Six previous owners (One in Scotland)
- Current owner acquired in February 2011. (My Early Retirement present to myself) 34 years old with 33,000 miles on the clock.
- Restored/personalised early 2012 including, New O/s wing, de-moulded, bare metal respray (Simon Clayton, Barnsley Body Shop)
- Interior retrimmed in leather to 2.8 Recaro seats,(designed by wife).
- Engine rebuilt and 5 speed G/box added, (Keith Goodwin and owner).
Awards
- Maguires Showcase car NEC Classic car Show 2012 (Thank you Alan Sutcliffe)
- Capri Club 45th Celebration Mk2 NEC Classic car Show 2019.
- Capri Club Display NEC Classic car Show 2022.
- Gold medal winner Capri Club International Event, Evesham 2012/2013/2015/2017/2019,2022.#
Present Day
Now she works twice a week in summer months and good days in winter as a prescription delivery vehicle for the local doctors surgery – its the best delivery van you will ever see!
I bought WEA to replace a 2.8 Capri I had because I wanted a car I could look after myself when I retired in 2014.
We have attended many shows around the country with the Mansfield Notts branch of the CCI. I did the London Brighton Classic Car run in 2016 and 2018 and attended the LONDON Regent Street Event in 2021.
We have driven around Silverstone track, Croft Circuit and driven and parked on the hallowed banking of Brooklands. These events have added miles to the car but I believe Classics are to be used and enjoyed, not stored as investments. They become just expensive garden ornaments.
I have ‘The car I always promised myself’.
Submitted by: Ray Polaine
