The RS3100 was a limited edition Capri built to homologate the parts needed for Ford to compete head-to-head with BMW in the European Touring Car Championship. The regulations technically required a minimum production of 1,000 cars, but in the end only 250 RS3100s were constructed (one at Ford Advanced Vehicle Operations in South Ockenden and 249 at Halewood on Merseyside), 50 of which were sent to Australia, making the model an unusual sight on UK shores. Power came from Ford of Britain's trusty V6 Essex engine over-bored to 3091cc and equipped with hand finished inlet and exhaust ports for superior gas flow. The result was a lusty output of 148bhp at 5500rpm, leading to a 0-60mph acceleration time of 7.3 seconds and a top speed in excess of 125mph. Other items of note included: dual circuit braking system with ventilated front discs; lowered and stiffened suspension; relocated track control arms resulting in negative cambered front wheels; lightly flared wheels arches covering six inch wide alloy wheels; neat chin spoiler and large boot lid-mounted ducktail one on the rear; front quarter bumpers. Most other items were as per the Capri 3000GT, on which the RS3100 was based. The model was only available through Ford's network of Rallye Sport dealers.

The tidy example being sold is finished in the strident colour of Sebring Red teamed with the Black vinyl interior common to all RS3100s. We are informed it was supplied new to a Mr Donald MacKenzie of Scotland in August 1974, and 43 years later it is displaying a credible (though unwarranted) 60,741 miles. It is offered complete with original order sheet and owner's handbook, DVLA ownership history, and a collection of old MOTs and invoices. Interest in 'The Car You Always Promised Yourself' is escalating steadily, making good examples of the rare RS3100 ever more sought after.

PLEASE NOTE: All estimates are subject to a buyer's premium of 15% incl. VAT (@ 20%)