Development of the 1991 to 1994 Mercury Capri

The "Modern Capri" was born when Ford Australia (Ford APAO) was given the corporate objective from its US headquarters to develop a small front wheel drive, two seat roadster. The "Aussies" embraced this objective by enlisting the help of the Italians to design the attractive coachwork. They utilized Ford's "Ghia" design studio to develop the two-seat convertible initially dubbed the Barchetta. The engineering, the interior & excellent folding roof were done by another Italian firm specializing in engineering / design, "Ital design". Although viewed by Mazda to be a potential competitor to its fledgling Miata, Ford still was able to use its formidable financial/business alliance with Mazda to source Japanese modern and reliable mechanicals; Ford primarily argued that the Capri was not a true competitor to Mazda's Miata, as the Capri seated four and the Miata only two. As early as 1984 Ford Australia's proposal was given the "corporate nod" and initial approval & funding was granted. The amalgamation of components from these three countries, as well as others, created a true "world car".

Thus, the "Modern Capri" was born and was manufactured from 1989-1994 in the Melbourne Australia, Broadmeadows assembly plant & marketed primarily in Australia & the United States. The Capri was based on a modified Mazda 323 chassis with its mechanicals (EFI engine, transaxle, brakes, suspension & steering) derived from a venerable rally champion, the 1988-89' Mazda 323 (base model) and 323GT/GTX. Similarly, there were two models of Capris offered, the base version equipped with DOHC 1.6 liter engines which generated 100 HP at 5750 RPM, and 95ft/LB of torque at 5500 RPM, and secondly, the upgraded turbo charged (IHI VJ-14 turbo charger) model, the "XR2",which was rated at 132 HP at 6000 RPM and 136 ft/LB of torque at 3000 RPM. The power plant used in the XR2 has a bullet-proof reputation, having seen many upward HP modifications and roaring first through the checkered flag, fastened securely under the hood of its rally champion sister, the 1988-89' Mazda 323 GTX. Capris equipped with manual transmissions utilized a fully synchronized five speed transmission as standard equipment. However, those who preferred the ease of an automatic transmission could opt for a four speed, Electronic Automatic Transmission (4EAT) which was available only on the base non-turbo model.

Modern Capri Parts offers 1991 to 1994 Capri parts . Modern Capri Parts is the leading supplier of Capri parts and accessories. Visit the on-line store and shop anytime for all your Capri parts and accessory needs. Use our 100% secure on-line store with shopping cart and performance upgrades for the 1991, 1992, 1993, and 1994 Mercury Capri.

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