Ford Capri 1974

This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, The Iconic Sale at the NEC Classic Motor Show 2025 on Saturday the 8th of November, NEC, Birmingham, B40 1NT. , An exceptionally rare 'homologation special', this 1974 Ford Capri RS3100 is one of just 250 examples hand-built by Ford’s Advanced Vehicle Operations (AVO) division to qualify the model for competition in the European Touring Car Championship (ETCC). Presented in its original Stardust Silver with factory-correct detailing, it remains a highly sought after and significant piece of British motorsport history. First registered in June 1974 as ROW 131M, this particular RS3100 was built during the final months of Capri RS3100 production and is fitted with the model’s signature 3.1-litre ‘Essex’ V6, co-developed with Cosworth and fuelled by a Weber 38DGAS twin-choke carburettor, delivering 148bhp through a 4-speed manual gearbox to the rear wheels. As a homologation car, the RS3100 featured a host of upgrades over the standard Capri, including Bilstein dampers, uprated springs, negative camber front geometry, a revised crossmember, ventilated front disc brakes, nine" rear drums and distinctive flared wheel arches. Its trademark 'ducktail' rear spoiler, lower ride height, and wide 13" alloy wheels complete the purposeful, competition-inspired appearance. ROW 131M was restored during the 1990s and further refreshed in 2021, forming part of an extensive private collection for the past eight years, dry stored and maintained as and when required. Whilst it has covered 95,228 miles from new, it has seen only minimal use in recent years, regularly started and warmed through to preserve mechanical integrity. The interior remains faithful to its period specification, finished in black vinyl with a 3-spoke sports steering wheel, VDO clock, and cassette stereo. A discreet Racetech oil temperature gauge has been added, and the engine benefits from unleaded big valve heads, a Kenlowe electric fan and other light modifications aimed at enhancing usability without compromising originality. This RS3100 is supplied with a photographic record of its restoration, a substantial file of maintenance invoices, its original owner’s handbook, V5C logbook and a single ignition key. Recent attention includes a July 2025 service by marque specialist QPrep, where the engine oil was changed and pre-sale preparation completed and, in 2023, the car received new dampers, rear wheel cylinders, a replacement water pump and electrical system repairs. Its most recent MOT test, in August 2025 at 95,299 miles, was passed without advisories, although the vehicle is now exempt due to age. A rare opportunity to acquire one of Ford’s most celebrated homologation specials, offering both historical significance and a rewarding ownership experience. With its correct specification, verified provenance, and tasteful updates for modern road use, this Capri RS3100 would make a superb addition to any serious collector’s garage or historic touring car stable.