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Ford Capri
The success of the Mustang was influential, inspiring most American car brands into offering a pony car model of their own. Even in Europe, the Mustang was popular and common. However, Ford wanted to explore the market further with a smaller, European version. They wanted it to be less expensive and more suited to the needs of European buyers. And this is how Ford Capri came to be in 1969.
They designed the Capri in the UK, so it was a European Mustang in every way. Using the “long hood-short deck” formula and semi-fastback styling, the Capri had a fantastic stance. Even though they based it on the standard Cortina floorplan using the same engines, the Capri looked like a thoroughbred sport or muscle car.
In fact, people often confused it for a U.S.-built Ford. This affordable coupe was almost as successful as the Mustang, selling millions throughout its 16-year lifespan. They also imported it to America as the Mercury Capri in the mid-70’s.