Monday, 28 September 2009

Ford Consul, Zephyr, Zodiac Cars: Zodiac Executive Mk4, Zephyr 6 Mk3, Zephyr Mk2

Do You Remember Your 1st Car?


Consul, Zephyr, Zodiac


This is one of many illustrated classic car guides I've created for the community. I hope you enjoy it. If you wish to find out more about the classic car art featured in this guide please click here.


Consul 375 Mk2 1961


Consul 375 Mk2 1961


Revised low-line Mk II models were launched in February 1959. Changes were mainly external, being a lower, flatter roof-line and increased use of bright-work. In 1961 the Mk 2 Consul was given the full title Consul 375 in order to distinguish it from the medium sized Consul Classic 315.


Zephyr Mk1 1951-1956


Zephyr Mk1 1951-1956


The Mk 1 models, in production from 1951 to early 1956, were promoted by Ford as The Five Star Cars. Technically advanced, with monocoque construction, overhead valve engines and independent (MacPherson) front suspension, these were the first modern post-war cars from Dagenham.


Zephyr Mk2 1956-1962


Zephyr Mk2 1956-1962


The Mk 2 Consul, Zephyr and Zodiac followed the success of the original MkI range in 1956. Featuring significantly larger bodywork than before, its styling having a distinctly transatlantic look. The Zephyr now used a 2,553cc six cylinder offering increased performance, an automatic gearbox was also available for the first time on a UK built Ford.


Zodiac Mk 2 Convertible 1956-1962


Zodiac Mk 2 Convertible 1956-1962


Convertible Versions of the Consul, Zephyr and Zodiac were included in the Mk II range from the launch. The Zodiac Convertible came fully loaded with luxury fittings and even boasted a power operated three-position folding hood. Two-tone bodywork added even more glamour. Always rare, only 16,309 MkII convertibles were produced, just 2.4% of total production.


Zephyr 6 Mk3 1962-1966


Zephyr 6 Mk3 1962-1966


The Mk 3 range featured a new bodyshell, which had striking fins and a lower roof profile than the Mk II cars. The Zephyr 6 had a distinctive front grille and a plush interior, overdrive and automatic transmissions were both available as options. Front discs were now standard.


Zodiac Mk3 1962-1966


Zodiac Mk3 1962-1966


The Zodiac was a six-light saloon and the first 100mph car to be catalogued by Dagenham, its increased performance due to a redesigned, high-compression cylinder head and dual exhaust system. Now a unique model, its major breakthrough was a four-speed all-synchromesh gearbox. Zodiac estate conversions were offered by Abbott of Farnham.


Zodiac Executive Mk4


Zodiac Executive Mk4


The Zodiac Executive was launched at the 1966 Earls Court Motor Show. Based on the Zodiac, this luxury saloon was even better equipped than the standard Zodiac, with automatic transmission, power steering and hide upholstery. Other standard fitments included a heated rear-screen, fog and spot lamps, a push-button radio, steel sliding sunroof and inertia seat belts.



Thank you for reading my guide and I hope you found it interesting!

Sunday, 27 September 2009

Ford Capri Cars: 280 Brooklands, 2.0S, II 2.0S JPS, RS3100

What Is Your Favourite Car Of All Time?


Capri Cars


Classic Capri Cars


This is one of many illustrated classic car guides I've created for the community. I hope you enjoy it. If you wish to find out more about the classic Ford Capri art featured in this guide please click here.


This guide celebrates the key models in the 18 years history of the Ford Capri. Launched in 1969, the Capri was in continuous production until 1986, concluding with the special edition 280 Brooklands. A total of 1.9 million examples were assembled.


Capri 1300, 1600, 1300GT, 1600GT, 2000GT and 3000GT


Capri 1300, 1600, 1300GT, 1600GT, 2000GT and 3000GT


The MkI Ford Capri hit the showrooms early in 1969 dubbed as "the car you always promised yourself". The Capri was an inexpensive and practical four-seater with the lines of a sports fastback. A bewildering array of options and accessories could be specified by the owner, in effect making each Capri almost tailor-made to an individual's tase, starting with 32 basic derivatives! With a choice six engines, (1300, 1600, 1300GT, 1600GT, 2000GT and 3000GT, the Capri could be customised by selecting from three Custom Plans. They were L, which was an exterior smartening option, X which upgraded the interior, and on GT cars the R would add sporty options such as a sports paint scheme, halogen lamps and sculptured road wheels.


Capri 3000GT XLR


Capri 3000GT XLR


The Capri 3000 GT was the ultimate expression of the early Capri range with its 2,994cc Kent V6 engine and a version that truly justified the Capri's sporty appearance. In common with all GT models, the 3000GT had servo brakes, radial tyres, wood trimmed centre console, a full array of sports gauges, close-ratio gearbox, twin speed wipers and a passenger vanity mirror. The original 3000GT was capable of 113mph and 0-60mph in 9+ seconds, but by October 1971 the 3000GT and 3000E models were delivering a 122mph top end, and 0-60mph in around 8 seconds. Of the pre-facelift MkI Capris, only the 3-litre models were adorned with the popular bonnet power bulge, which time would see spread to the entire Capri range. Visible on the 3000GT XLR is a sub-gloss black bonnet, grille and sills, courtesy of the R Custom Plan, with attractive sports wheels standard on this particular version.


Capri RS3100


Capri RS3100


The Capri RS 3100 was created as a low volume homologations special for used on the track against the mighty BMWs for the 1974 season. Although adored by the motoring press, sales fell victim to the Arab-Israeli war and the earlier Launch of the new Capri II. That should not take anything away from the RS3100, it was a truly stunning and aerodynamic creation. With its FAVO styled boot-mounted duck tail spoiler, low ride level, modified spring rates and cross member, matt black quarter (and rear) bumpers, quad halogen lamps, 4 spoke AVO alloys, and body stripes, the RHD V6 Capri boasted a then creditable drag factor of just 0.375. The Essex coded engine was basically overbored to 3091cc and the ports and inlet tracts were polished resulting in 148bhp, 124mph and 0-60mph in under 8 seconds. Only 250 models were produced, making this a rare collectors car indeed.


Capri 3000GXL


Capri 3000GXL


1972 brought about significant changes and as a result the facelift Capris were launched in an attempt to keep ahead of the growing competition. These facelifted Capris were easily identified by larger lights, indicators in the front bumpers, the bonnet bulge adopted by models other than the V6, smaller side dummy air scoops and new rear suspension set up with anti roll bar as standard. Interior luxury was becoming a reality with cloth inserts to greatly improved sculptured seats and revised facia with the now familiar large instrumentation and switchgear. The 3000 GXL sported quad headlamps of the type first seen on the limited production RS2600 and destined for the RS3100. Further refinements included a general softening of suspension, use of an excellent single rail gearbox and viscous-coupled fan. The 140bhp 3000GXL could be specified with automatic transmission, originally introduced on the 3000E and GT, which would push 1972 purchase price to a shade over £2000.


Capri II 2.0S JPS


Capri II 2.0S JPS


By early 1975 industry trends and the Carpi's ego was steered to a more sporting nature and the Capri S GT appeared codenamed midnight. This model was blanketed in sensual black paintwork and featured gold coach-lining to its sides as well as bonnet and grille edges: a colour scheme borrowed, from the distinctive and successful John Player Special Formula 1 Lotus team cars. Black bumpers, headlining, door handles, door mirrors, window mouldings and exhaust pipe(s) continued the theme, whilst gold badging, seat panels and spayed alloy wheels (of varying designs) added the finishing touches. The Capri IIs generally soft suspension benefited from harder settings with luxuries such as tinted glass, twin rear view mirrors, halogen headlamps and rear wash-wipe, making the 1.6S, 2.0S, and 3.0S desirable sporting packages. The GT designation was dropped early on in S history and later models received a generous air-dam spoiler and less striping.


Capri II 3000 Ghia


Capri II 3000 Ghia


The Capri II was born in 1974 amid a gloomy economic climate, and this, with the cessation of US exports of the Capri, saw sales figures of the new generation Capri half that of the original. The new breed was larger, had mores space, with a better ride and generally was a much improved car, it incorporated a hatchback with the fuel tank repositioned to behind the rear axle under the floorpan. The V6 offerings were the 3000GT and 3000 Ghia - the newly acquired Turin styling house's influence resulting in a higher level of luxury than Fords had previously enjoyed, with liberal use of plush fabrics and extra padding to the now opulent interior. In terms of performance the 3000 twin-piped engine in its new shell did not sparkle as much as the retiring 3000GXL, but improved brakes and tyre combinations made it infinitely more controllable. The Ghia enjoyed vinyl roof, tinted glass, sunroof and stood on unique 8-spoke alloy road-wheels.


Capri 2.0S


Capri 2.0S


1978 saw the emergence of the third generation Capri, a sleeker, faster and altogether safer car, easily identified by its quad headlamps nestling under a restyled drooping bonnet line and large ridged rear lights used extensively as a trademark by Ford models of the early 1980s. Based on the Capri II floorpan, the MK III Capri benefited by a liberal used of plastics and aerodynamically by the introduction of a standard rear spoiler for all the S models. The S range had a choice of 3 engines - the 1600 OHC, 2000 OHC and 3000 V6, all with twin venturi carburettors. At this time, models were shod with alloys first seen on the luxurious Capri II Ghia S, and were trimmed with the fashionable Carla seat fabric and huge S body-side stripes.


Capri 2.8 Injection


Capri 2.8 Injection


The swansong of the Capri's history, the 2.8 injection, did much to revive the fortunes of the ageing Capri, and was a sensation at its launch in 1981, adding years onto the life of the genre. The 3-litre Essex plant was dropped in favour of the aggressive Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injected Cologne V6, and handling improved by a taughter suspension and lower ride height resulting in a package far more refined than any yet presented, and all at the lean starting price of £7995. The 2.8i could reach 60mph in under 8seconds and achieved 130mph. This feisty performance with luxuries such as Recaro seats, unique perpperpot alloys, tilting/sliding sunroof, power steering, tinted glass and opening rear quarter windows ensure this model a cult status, going down in history as a true drivers car and a high point in Ford's sporting model range.


Capri 280 Brooklands


Capri 280 Brooklands


The final chapter in the Capri's history, and a fitting end was the Brooklands 280, of which only 1038 were produced as late as December 1986. Basically a 2.8i with special Brooklands Green metallic paintwork, the 152bhp Capri was undeniably attractive with its unique red and white coachlining and enormous 7J 15inch 7-spoke allooy wheels with road hugging 195/50 VR15 Pirellis, Trimed copiously in raven leather hide and with every extra one could possibly want, the Capri 280 could be nothing other than an instant classic, a dignified end to the Capri story, which spanned 18 years, and linked itself with such illustrious names as Jackie Stewart and Emerson Fittipaldi. Culminating 1.9 million examples, and loved by people worldwide, it really was "the car you always promised yourself".



Thank you for reading my guide and I hope you found it interesting!

Saturday, 26 September 2009

Capri Mk3 Cars: 280 Brooklands, 2.8 Injection Special, 2.8T Tickford

What Is Your Favourite Car?


Ford Capri Mk3


Ford Capri Mk3


This is one of many illustrated classic car guides I've created for the community. I hope you enjoy it and if you would like to find out more about the classic Ford Capri Mk3 car art featured in this guide please click here.


The third-generation Capri which arrived in March 1978 was mechanically similar to equivalent Capri 2s, but used a revised body with new grille, bumpers and front valance incorporating airdam, together with four headlamps and extended bonnet leading edge. The UK range at launch was as follows: 1300L/GL, 1600L/GL, 1600S, 2.0GL, S or ghia and 3.0S or Ghia.


Capri 3000S 1978-1981


Capri 3000S 1978-1981


The third-generation Capris were introduced at the Geneva Show in March 1978, allegedly with 150 revisions, but in practice little different from their predecessors. The new extended bonnet gave the headlamps a sort of eyebrow effect. The S models ran on Ghia wheels but gained a soft plastic rear spoiler and prominent S side striping. Desirable extras from the options list were Recaro seats (75.84), headlamp washers (56.14) and a high quality steel sunroof (£146).


Capri 2.8 Injection 1981-1984


Capri 2.8 Injection 1981-1984


Ford created a sensation with the Capri2.8i - the first UK-market version to use the Cologne V6 engine, the first to have fuel injection (160bhp), and the first to have its chassis redeveloped by Rod Mansfield's SVE department. Priced originally at £7995, it was an immediate success, with a genuine 129mph and 0-60 in a sizzling 7.9s. This became the definitive sporting Capri, and by the time the final 280 version had been sold in 1987, over 25,000 had been produced.


Capri Zakspeed Turbo 1981-1982


Capri Zakspeed Turbo 1981-1982


From July 1981 the German market took another step forward with the launch of the Zakspeed-engineered Capri Turbo. It was a strange mixture of 2.8-litre carburettor-fed Granada engine with a KKK turbocharger, 2.8 injection running gear and X-Pack body panels, and was clearly designed to cash in on the success of the fabulous Zakspeed racers. Only around 200 were built and officially it was only ever available in Germany, through RS dealerships.


Capri 2.8T Tickford 1983-1986


Capri 2.8T Tickford 1983-1986


Ford backed limited production of what probably rates as the most dramatic of converted Capris, the 2.8T Tickford. A conversion based on the 2.8i, but with a 205bhp turbocharged 2.8-litre engine, the model was easily recognised by its extrovert body kit, which included spoilers and side skirts, together with its distinctive blanked-off front grille. Tickford reckoned on producing around 250-400 cars, but with prices starting at £14,985 it was hardly surprising that only 83 cars entered production, the last in 1987.


Capri 2.8 Injection Special 1984-1986


Capri 2.8 Injection Special 1984-1986


In October 1984 the Capri range was rationalised to just 2 models, the limited edition Laser and the Injection Special. The Capri 2.8 Injection Special was launched to coincide with the London Motor Show, its main features over and above the standard 2.8i being leather trim, spoked RS wheels, rear seat belts and a limited-slip differential. Minor colour coding was also applied - the grille, the bonnet lip extension and the headlamp bezels now finished in body colour, although the rear spoilers and mirrors remained matt black.


Capri 280 Brooklands 1986


Capri 280 Brooklands 1986


A final run of 2.8-litre injected models badged as the Capri 280, were introduced in March 1987. Painted in Brooklands dark green, with red and white coachlines, they were tastefully trimmed in leather and fitted with 7J X 15-in alloy wheels. Costing £11,999 each, just 1,038 280s were built making them instant classics. It represented a dignified end for Ford's sport coupe, which had seen continuous production for the 18 years from November 1968 until December 1986 and notched up a total of nearly 1.9 million copies.




Thank you for reading my guide and I hope you found it interesting!

Friday, 25 September 2009

Ford Capri Mk2 Cars: 3000S X-Pack, 3000GT S JPS, 2000GT S, 3.0 Ghia, 3000 GT

Do You Remember Your First Ford Car?


Capri Mk2


Ford Capri Mk2


This is one of many illustrated classic car guides I've created for the community. I hope you enjoy it. If you wish to find out more about the classic Ford Capri Mk2 art featured in this guide please click here.


The hatchback Capri 2 was introduced in February 1974 with mechanical components broadly similar to the earlier range but with an all-new body-shell. The UK range consisted of crossflow-engined 1300L, Pinto-engined 1600L, XL and GT, Pinto-engined 2000GT and the new Ghia model, plus V6 3000GT and Ghia. Capri S went on sale from late 1975 following the success of the GT S or Midnight limited editions.


Capri 3000GT 1974-1975


Capri 3000GT 1974-1975


With the new Capri mkII, the GT specification was available with 1600, 2000 and 3000 power units. The GT included halogen headlamps, a clock, twin-tone horns and individually folding rear seats. Minor details included keying the colour of the carpets to the exterior GT paintwork and two lamps in the tailgate luggage zone. GTs were only ever offered in manual transmission.


Capri 3.0 Ghia 1974-1978


Capri 3.0 Ghia 1974-1978


There were 8 basic models in the 1974 Capri II (British) range, badged as follows: 1300L, 1600L, 1600XL, 1600GT, 2000GT, Ghia 2.0, 3000GT and Ghia 3.0. The 3.0-litre Ghia was developed with the Ford-owned coachbuilding firm Ghia of Trin. Separated rear-exhausts came with the 3.0-litre V6 in Britain, the Ghia boasted eight spoke alloy wheels, a vinyl roof, tinted glass and a sliding steel sunroof. Metalic paint was now available, and the Ghia offered a plush and luxurious environment, the seats upholstered in Rialto cloth.


Capri 2000GT S 1975


Capri 2000GT S 1975


A special edition of the Capri MkII went on sale during June 1975. Variously titled the Capri II S (by Ford) or the Midnight Capri (by others), it was a subtle echoing of the John Player colours, which Lotus wore in Grand Prix racing. However, if black paintwork was not desired, the S could be ordered instead in Diamond White, with white bumpers/black rubber facing strips. All the remaining items stayed black. Available as a 1600, 2-litre or 3-litre, only a tiny handful of these white S-specification cars were produced.


Capri 3000GT S JPS 1975


Capri 3000GT S JPS 1975


The special edition Capri S (commonly known as the JPS model) went on sale in June 1975. With 1.6, 2.0 and 3.0-litre GT spec engines, it initially featured black paintwork, bumpers, window frames and door handles, with panels outlined in gold and gold badging. Inside there was black treatment for normally bright metal parts, plus black upholstery with gold-coloured cloth seat panels. A2.3-litre version was available for Germany. Such was the success of the S models that Ford offered them as mainstream for 1976.


Capri 3000S 1975-1978


Capri 3000S 1975-1978


Initially available to special order only, the S suffix replaced the GT title in October 1975. Retaining some of the body coachlines and matt-black embellishments of the JPS cars, the S Capris were now available in various body colours other than black. With firmer handling and better aerodynamics, they represented a return to the Capri's more sporting origins.


Capri 3000S X-Pack


Capri 3000S X-Pack


With the series X kits, buyers could add authentic Rallye Sport style and performance, with a long list of options. These included on the 3.0-litre V6, a Group One Spec. engine, a limited slip differential, gas filled front struts, lower and stiffer front springs, gas-filled rear shock absorbers, 7 ½ J-plus alloys and ventilated brakes. The X-packs will be remembered for their superb looking body-kit, offering what the Ford brochure described as an Anti-dive kit, Wing extension kit and rear spoiler. Originals are ultra rare and desirable.



Thank you for reading my guide and I hope you found it interesting!

Wednesday, 23 September 2009

Ford Capri Mk 1: RS3100, Broadspeed Turbo Bullit, 3000 GXL

Do You Remember Your First Car?


Ford Capri Mk1 Cars


Ford Capri Mk 1 Cars


This is one of many illustrated classic Ford car guides I've created for the community. I hope you enjoy it. If you wish to find out more about the classic Ford Capri Mk1 art featured in this guide please click here.


Introduced as "the car you always promised yourself", the Capri was seen as the European equivalent of the Mustang. Sporty and affordable, its sales markedly outstripped even the most optimistic predictions of Ford's marketing experts. An impressive record in international motor sports helped to further the Capri's image, and in the present day, the Capri holds a well earned place in Ford's stable of respected classics.


Capri 3000GT 1969-1973


Capri 3000GT 1969-1973


Ford introduced the much-hyped Capri in the Spring of 1969. The flagship was the V6-engined 3000 GT. Fitted with and up-rated version of Ford's Mk4 Zodiac Essex V6 engine, it gave almost unparalleled performance for the price and thus began a tradition that was to run until 1982.


Capri Perana V8 1970-1972


Capri Perana V8 1970-1972


A V8-engined Capri developed by Basil Green Motors, based in Johannesburg, South Africa. Officially backed by Ford SA and marketed through its country-wide dealer chain, Peranas started life as 3000Es and interestingly the engine transplant, giving two extra cylinders added only 14lbs (6.4kg) over the standard V6. With the V8 mounted well back in the newly fabricated chassis, weight distribution was a reasonably 53/47 front to back and performance was spectacular. One magazine recorded 0-60 in 6.1 seconds and 143mph!


Capri 3000E 1971-1972


Capri 3000E 1971-1972


Ford launched the 3000 E (E for Executive) at the 1970 Geneva Motor Show. The £1,541 flagship carried all the usual XLR options, plus the then fashionable vinyl roof, the first cloth seat inserts to be offered in British Capris and now a radio as standard. In October 1971 the previously lazy V6 was worked over to give an extra 9lb/ft of torque and 10bhp. It made the 3000E and 3000GT, according to Ford's PR men, "the fastest production line cars ever to be marketed by Ford in Britain".


Capri 3000 GXL 1972-1974


Capri 3000 GXL 1972-1974


Ford announced a major facelift for the Mk 1 Capri in 1972. All cars now received big headlamps, bonnet bulges, new-style wheels, and a new style facia (which was carried forward to the Mk2 hatchback in 1974). An engine reshuffle saw the old-style 1600GT Kent dropped in favour of the OHC Pinto engine for the first time. The Capri 3000E gave way to a new four-headlamp 3000GXL. Although not rebadged, these were really Mk 1 ½ models. Ford produced nearly 199,000 Capris in 1972.


Capri Broadspeed Turbo Bullit 1973


Capri Broadspeed Turbo Bullit 1973


Ralph Broad, whose name needs very little introduction to fast Ford fans, introduced the "Turbo Built" in 1973. Based on the 3000GXL, this conversion was undertaken at Broadspeed's Southam, Warwickshire workshop, and was only ever available as a complete package. A genuine 140mph Capri, the turbocharger also provided stunning acceleration, with little, if any "turbo-lag".


Capri RS3100 1973-1974


Capri RS 3100 1973-1974


November 1973 saw the introduction of the limited edition Capri RS3100 - like the 3000GT, but with a 148bhp, 3.1-litre engine and large rear ducktail spoiler. As a homologation special, Ford officially needed to build 1,000 of these cars to be compliant with Group 2 regulations, though it is likely that only 250 were assembled before the energy crisis took effect.



Thank you for reading my guide and I hope you found it interesting!

Sunday, 20 September 2009

Classic Ford Cars: Anglia 105E Estate, Popular 100E, Prefect 107E

Do Your Remember Your First Ford Car?


Popular, Prefect and Anglia


Ford Popular, Prefect and Anglia


This is one of many illustrated classic car guides I've created for the eBay community. I hope you enjoy it and if you would like to find out more about the classic Ford car art featured in this guide please click here.


October 1962 saw the introduction of the Anglia Super. It came complete with the Cortina's 1,198cc version of the '80 bore engine, all-synchromesh gearbox improved brakes. Offered in distinctive two-tone, chrome-highlighted combinations, the Super was designated the 123E.


Popular 103E


Popular 103E


Although the introduction of the 100E range in 1953 signalled the end of the old Anglia and prefect, Ford still wanted a budget entry model in the range, and dusted off the Anglia E494A to produce the new 103E Popular. This no-frills model proved a success, with over 150,000 produced between 1953-1959.


Prefect 107E


Prefect 107E


Since the new Anglia was only available in 2-door form the old Prefect 100E bodyshell was continued to retain a low-priced 4-door model, but with the 105E power unit and four-speed transmission. Deluxe specification only it had two-tone paint, floor carpets front and rear and improved seats.


Squire Estate 100E


Squire Estate 100E


The Escort and Squire Estates were Ford's first factory-built small wagons. Escorts were 5cwt vans with Anglia grilles, seats and windows. Squires used the Prefect grille and wood strakes on the side. Mechanically, they were identical.


Popular 100E


Popular 100E


When the trendy new 105E Anglia came out in 1959, the old 100E Anglia was downgraded to become the new Popular. Externally it differed only in having simpler round rear lamps. The Standard Popular had no parcel shelf or opening quarter lights, fittings only found on the Deluxe version.


Anglia 105E Deluxe


Anglia 105E Deluxe


Most Anglia 105E buyers opted for the Deluxe specification car, since it was only slightly more expensive than the standard model. The Deluxe boasted a full-width chrome grille and the option of two-tone paintwork, in which the roof panel and rear pillars received the second colour. 1959 prices were £589 (Standard) and £610 (Deluxe).


Anglia 105E Estate


Anglia 105E Estate


Ford launched an estate version of the Anglia 105E in the autumn of 1961. This featured a completely restyled rear-end, in which the saloons rear wing line and tail lamp treatment disappeared. A counterbalanced lift-up tailgate was provided, giving access to a 35 cubic feet load-space. Some estate cars received the 1200 engine.



Thank you for reading my guide and I hope you found it interesting!

Saturday, 19 September 2009

Ferrari Cars 1970s 1980s: 365 GTB/4, 365 GTS/4 Daytona, Dino 246 GT, 246 GTS, 288 GTO

What Is Your Favorite Sports Car Of All Time?


Ferrari 1970s & 1980s


Ferrari Cars 70s and 80s


This is one of many illustrated classic car guides I've created for the community. I hope you enjoy it and if you would like to find out more about the classic Ferrari car art featured in this guide please click here.


This guide celebrates seven of Ferrari's finest models of the 1970s and 1980s.


F40 1988-1992


Ferrari F40 1988-1992


Built to celebrate 40 years of Ferrari cars, the F40 was also created to upstage the Porsche 959 and to be the world's fastest production car. In essence, it was a GTO with different body panels, stripped of carpets and interior door panels, and it even had sliding Plexiglas windows to save weight. The engine was a short-stroke variation of the 3-litre quattrovalvole V8 with twin 1H1 turbochargers, producing a massive 471bhp with 426lb/ft torque. In this form it was claimed to top 201mph/325km/h and reach 60mph (100km/h) in under four seconds. For those looking for even more performance, a factory kit with larger turbochargers and different camshafts could add a further 200bhp.


Ferrari 308 GTB and 308 GTS 1975-1985


Ferrari 308 GTB and 308 GTS 1975-1985


One of the longest-lived of all Ferraris, the 308 GTB arrived in 1975 with - shock, horror - part-glassfibre bodywork. Its transverse mid-mounted four-cam V8 gave 250bhp and 0-60mph in 6.5sec.Despite glassfibre's lightness and durability, customers forced a change to steel panels in 1977, knocking 4mph off the top speed. The targa-topped GTS version arrived in 1978. Bosch fuel injection from 1981 killed power for the sake of emissions (214bhp, 148mph/238kmh), but four valves per cylinder (Quattrovalvole) in 1983 brought it back up, while an extra269cc in the bodily-identical 328 GTB of 1985 took the stunning Pininfarina flyer to over 160mph (257kmh) and a well-deserved 13-year lifespan.


Ferrari 512 BB and 512 Bbi 1976-1984


Ferrari 512 BB and 512 Bbi 1976-1984


The 512BB (Berlinetta Boxer) was introduced at the Paris Salon in 1976 as a replacement for the 365 GT4/BB. Visually there appeared to be little difference but on close inspection the new car had a "chin" spoiler under the front grille and NACA ducts low down on the body sides and just in front of the rear wings. The flat-12 boxer engine was given an extra 552cc over the 365 GT4/BB model, bringing the displacement up to 4,942cc. Quoted power was now 360bhp and the maximum speed had risen to 188mph/302kmh. Production ended in 1984 to make way for the controversially-styled Testarossa.


Ferrari 288 GTO 1984-1985


Ferrari 288 GTO 1984-1985


Produced for Group B competition, which required a production run of at least 200 but was cancelled in 1986, the GTO was considered special enough to receive one of Ferrari's most famous model names. Designed at the factory, it resembled the 308 GTB and used that car's engine, but now the 3-litre V8 was mounted north/south rather than east/west and with twin turbochargers and electronic fuel injection, it pumped out over 400bhp, with 366lb/ft torque at 3800rpm. The 288 GTO is easily distinguished by its high door mirrors, but less obvious is that the wheelbase is 4.4in longer, mainly to accommodate the different engine position. Ferrari claimed a top speed of 190mph/305kmh and 0-60 in five seconds.


Ferrari Dino 246 GT and 246 GTS 1969-1974


Ferrari Dino 246 GT and 246 GTS 1969-1974


The original Dino 206 of 1967-1969 was fitted with an aluminium 2-litre engine/gearbox transversely mounted across the chassis behind the seats. Its multi-tube chassis all-independent suspension and Pininfarina-styled body were all "typical-Ferrari" of the period. Within two years of the launch, however, the Dino became the Dino 246 - not only with an enlarged, iron-block, 2.4-litre V6 engine and a longer wheelbase but with steel instead of light-alloy panels. The 246 Coupe was joined by the soft-top GTS in 1972. Both were displaced by the new Type 308 V8-engined models in 1973. Total 246/GTS production: 3,761 cars.


Ferrari 365 GTB/4 and 365 GTS/4 Daytona 1968-1973


Ferrari 365 GTB/4 and 365 GTS/4 Daytona 1968-1973


A proud last gasp statement by Ferrari in the front-engined Grand tourer stakes, the 365 GTB/4 Daytona was introduced in 1968. The Pininfarina styling was muscular yet handsome and early cars used unusual Plexiglas covered front lights, soon replaced by retractable units that gave the Daytona a menacing squint at the front. Fitted with the magnificent 4.4-litre quad-cam-V-twelve engine, the Daytona could reach 174mph/280kmh and soar to 60mph in neck-straining 5.4secs -quite truly a sensational road car. A highly desirable 365 GTS/4 open-topped version was also produced to the tune of 165 examples.



Thank you for reading my guide and I hope you found it interesting!