Market Niche:
Compact sporty hatchback, often marketed as a more affordable European-style alternative.
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac Firebird, Ford Mustang, Datsun 280ZX, Toyota Celica
Vehicle Characteristics:
Rear-wheel drive, sporty styling, available in various engine configurations catering to performance and economy.
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and owners seeking to maintain or restore their Mercury Capri.
Instant Access:
Instant PDF download, immediate access to repair information without shipping delays.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, HVAC, Body & Chassis, Interior Components, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Wiring Diagrams
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine Mechanical (including disassembly, assembly, specifications), Engine Performance, Fuel Delivery, Ignition System, Emission Control Systems
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Clutch System, Driveshafts, Differential, Axles
Chassis Suspension Steering:
Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Steering System (including power steering), Wheel Alignment Specifications
Brake System:
Front Brakes (Disc/Drum), Rear Brakes (Drum), Parking Brake System, Brake Fluid Specifications
Electrical System:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Wiper System, Horn, Power Accessories, Fuse and Relay Locations, Wiring Diagrams
Body Chassis HVAC:
Body Panel Repair, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim, Seats, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC)
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), Filter Replacement, Lubrication, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt and Hose Inspection/Replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake Component Service, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, HVAC System Repair
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common drivability, starting, and electrical issues, symptom-based troubleshooting charts
Technical Specifications:
Tightening Torques, Wear Limits, Adjustment Specifications, Fluid Capacities, Component Dimensions
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to major component overhauls. Includes detailed explanations, pictorial diagrams, exploded views, and schematics.
Engine Options:
2.3L OHC Inline-4 (Ford 'Lima' engine), 2.8L Cologne V6, 3.3L Inline-6 (less common in later years), 5.0L Windsor V8 (special performance models like Capri RS)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 85 hp (2.3L I4) to 140 hp (5.0L V8), depending on year and specific engine tune.
Torque Range:
Varies significantly by engine. For example, the 2.3L I4 produced around 120 lb-ft, while the 5.0L V8 could exceed 230 lb-ft.
Fuel Delivery Systems:
Carbureted (e.g., Motorcraft 2150 2-barrel for I4/V6) and Fuel Injection (e.g., Throttle Body Injection - TBI on some later 2.3L models)
Recommended Oil:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 based on temperature, API service classification SF or SG).
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 5 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter for most 4-cylinder and V6 engines.
Spark Plug Type:
Refer to manual for specific heat range and gap, but typically Motorcraft or equivalent.
Standard Transmission:
4-speed Manual (e.g., Ford 'Toy' transmission for smaller engines), 5-speed Manual (optional on some later models)
Optional Transmission:
3-speed Automatic (e.g., Ford C3), 4-speed Automatic (e.g., Ford C5)
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent for automatic transmissions. Manual transmission fluid (gear oil) varies by type.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 104.2 inches (2647 mm)
Length:
Approximately 175.2 inches (4450 mm)
Width:
Approximately 69.0 inches (1753 mm)
Height:
Approximately 52.7 inches (1339 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2,600 - 3,000 lbs (1179 - 1361 kg), depending on engine and equipment.
Crash Test Information:
Information for this era is less standardized than modern vehicles. The manual will detail specific structural reinforcements and safety system design.
Braking System:
Standard front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional rear disc brakes on performance models.
Seatbelts:
Standard 3-point front seatbelts, lap belts in the rear.
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column designed to absorb impact energy.
Fuel Tank Protection:
The manual will detail fuel tank mounting and protection measures.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette player. Aftermarket upgrades were common.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited for this era; typically included power steering on higher trims, possibly intermittent wipers.
Connectivity Features:
None in the modern sense. Relied on analog systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles (4,800 to 8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Manual will provide specific chart.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km). Manual: Varies, check as needed or at major service intervals.
Coolant Change Interval:
Typically every 24,000 to 30,000 miles (38,000 to 48,000 km) or 2 years.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant. Refer to manual for specific type (e.g., Ford Premium Green or equivalent).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified).
Common Wear Items:
Carburetor issues, ignition system components (points, condenser, distributor), cooling system leaks, suspension bushings, exhaust system rust.
Electrical Problems:
Wiring harness degradation, grounding issues, aging electrical connectors can lead to intermittent problems.
Mercury Brand Positioning:
Ford's mid-tier brand, often offering sporty or upscale versions of Ford models. Capri was positioned as a sport compact/personal luxury coupe.
Second Generation Development:
Based on the Ford Fox platform, shared with the Ford Mustang Fox-body and Fairmont. Designed to compete with Japanese imports and other American sporty coupes.
Manufacturing Location:
Assembled in the United States by Ford Motor Company.
Production Years:
1979-1986
