Market Niche:
Sporty coupe and hatchback appealing to a younger demographic, often seen as an affordable performance alternative.
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac Firebird, AMC Javelin, Datsun Z-cars, Toyota Celica, Ford Mustang.
Design Heritage:
Based on the Ford Fox platform, shared with the Mustang, offering a European-inspired sport coupe look.
Performance Focus:
Available with powerful V8 engines, rear-wheel drive, and sport-tuned suspension options, emphasizing handling and acceleration.
Customization Potential:
Popular in the aftermarket for performance modifications and aesthetic customization.
Years Covered:
1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986
Models Covered:
All Mercury Capri models and trims
Engine Variants Covered:
All factory-equipped engines, including inline-4, inline-6, and V8
Transmission Types Covered:
All factory-equipped transmissions, including manual and automatic
Estimated Pages:
Varies based on specific model year and engine combination, typically 1500-2500+ pages for a comprehensive set
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (PDF compatible)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine diagnosis, overhaul, internal components (pistons, rings, bearings, crankshaft, camshaft), timing systems, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Performance:
Fuel system (carburetor/fuel injection), ignition system, exhaust system, emissions control systems, turbocharging (if applicable).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (clutch, gears, linkages), automatic transmission (torque converter, valve body, internal components), driveshafts, CV joints, differentials.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc), hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped).
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms, springs, shocks), rear suspension (leaf springs, shocks), power steering system, steering column, steering rack/box.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system (headlights, taillights), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, ignition switch, accessory circuits.
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, seats, glass, chassis components, rust repair, structural integrity.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (A/C) system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and changes.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, troubleshooting common problems, diagnosis of failures.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, identifying causes of malfunctions.
Rebuild Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and major component rebuilds.
Technical Data:
Specifications for clearances, torques, adjustments, and performance parameters.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete rebuilds, suitable for professional technicians and dedicated DIY enthusiasts.
Engine 1979 1980:
2.3L Inline-4 (OHC) 'Pinto' engine
Engine 1979 1980 Hp:
Approx. 88-90 hp
Engine 1979 1983:
2.8L Cologne V6 (optional)
Engine 1979 1983 Hp:
Approx. 100-115 hp
Engine 1979 1985:
4.2L V8 (optional, 1979-1980) / 5.0L V8 '302' (optional, 1980-1985)
Engine 1980 V8 Hp:
Approx. 130-140 hp
Engine 1983 1986:
2.3L Turbocharged Inline-4 'CFI' or 'EFI'
Engine 1983 Turbo Hp:
Approx. 140-175 hp (depending on year and trim)
Engine 1985 1986:
2.3L Turbocharged 'CFI' or 'EFI'
Engine 1985 1986 Hp:
Approx. 145-175 hp
Torque Specs V8:
Varies by year and specific V8 engine, typically in the 200-250 lb-ft range.
Fuel Delivery Early:
Carburetor (e.g., Motorcraft 2-barrel on base engines, Holley on V8s)
Fuel Delivery Later:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) and Central Fuel Injection (CFI) on later models and turbo variants.
Standard Transmission Early:
4-speed manual transmission
Standard Transmission Later:
5-speed manual transmission (e.g., T-5 on performance models)
Optional Transmission Early:
3-speed automatic transmission (e.g., C3)
Optional Transmission Later:
4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., AOD)
Clutch System:
Hydraulic clutch actuation on later models.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.4 inches (2652 mm)
Length:
Approx. 181.2 inches (4602 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
Approx. 52.5 inches (1334 mm)
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by engine and equipment, typically ranging from 2700 lbs (1225 kg) for base models to 3200+ lbs (1450+ kg) for V8 and turbo models.
Trunk Capacity:
Varies by body style (coupe vs. hatchback), but generally moderate for its class.
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data readily available for these specific years from NHTSA; however, the Fox platform generally performed acceptably for its era. Modern standards would be significantly different.
Braking System:
Power-assisted front disc brakes standard on most models, rear drum brakes. Optional rear disc brakes on some performance variants. Power brake booster standard.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag introduced in later years (mid-1980s). Passenger airbag generally not available during this generation.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts, lap belts in the rear.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced roof structure, but without advanced rollover protection systems.
Audio System:
Typically AM/FM radio, with optional cassette player. Speaker configurations varied by trim.
Gauges Instruments:
Basic analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (optional), fuel, temperature, and oil pressure. Warning lights for system malfunctions.
Cruise Control:
Optional on many models.
Intermittent Wipers:
Standard on most models, with adjustable delay on some trims.
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features (Bluetooth, USB, etc.) were available; primarily analog systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult specific engine recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by spark plug type; typically 30,000-60,000 miles for conventional plugs, and potentially longer for platinum or iridium plugs (if retrofitted).
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles, using the appropriate coolant mixture.
Engine Oil Type Early:
API SF or SG rated oil, viscosity SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for exact recommendation based on temperature).
Engine Oil Type Later:
May require API SH or SJ rated oil for later models. Refer to manual.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF Type 'A' or Dexron II/III (check specific transmission for exact spec).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Rust Corrosion:
Prone to rust in common areas like wheel wells, rocker panels, door bottoms, and rear quarter panels due to age and original undercoating.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses, corroded connectors, and failing relays can lead to intermittent electrical problems.
Carburetor Issues:
Carburetors can become finicky with age, requiring frequent adjustments, cleaning, or rebuilding.
HVAC System Wear:
A/C compressors, evaporators, and heater cores can fail over time. Blend door actuators and vacuum lines can also degrade.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, and struts/shocks are common wear items that can affect ride quality and handling.
Mercury Lineage:
Mercury was Ford's mid-tier brand, positioned between Ford and Lincoln, aiming for a more stylish and upscale appeal.
Capri Generation 3 Launch:
Introduced in 1979 as a rebadged European Ford Capri, featuring a more angular, hatchback-centric design compared to its predecessors.
Trim Levels:
Offered in various trims like base, 'L' (Luxury), 'LS', 'GTS', 'RS', 'Turbo', and 'XR-7' (later models), each with distinct styling and performance cues.
Facelifts:
Received updates including revised front and rear fascias, interior styling tweaks, and introduction of new powertrain options throughout its production run.
Manufacturing Location:
Assembled in the United States (e.g., Metuchen, New Jersey; St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada).
Production End:
Mercury Capri production ceased in 1986, with the platform evolving into other Ford/Mercury models.
