1985 Ford Capri 2.8L Petrol · C203 GPU
1985 Ford Capri (2.8L, petrol). First registered 01 Aug 1985. Recorded mileage 86,563 miles. MOT expired on 15 Apr 2026. Taxed until 01 Apr 2027.
- Make & Model
- FORD CAPRI
- Year / Origin
- 1985 · Cardiff
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 15 Apr 2026
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Apr 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 86,563 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 2.8L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
C203 GPU Key Findings
- 2 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 17/04/2025
- 86,563 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
C203 GPU MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
2 MOT tests are recorded for this 1985 Ford Capri (C203 GPU) between April 2025 and April 2025.
The record contains 1 pass and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 17 April 2025 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Lighting (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
C203 GPU Mileage History
- 17/04/202586,563 mi
- 17/04/202586,563 mi
Average of roughly 0 miles per year across 2 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
A potentially attractive example of a 19
When purchasing a 1980s Capri, focus on the service history of the 2.8L engine. Ensure there is documentation for major work, as the MOT record only covers roadworthiness and not overall mechanical health.
Negotiate based on the current state of the bodywork and interior, as these are critical for a vehicle of this vintage. Be sure to verify the authenticity of the components and the consistency of the blue paintwork across the panels.
The 2792cc engine will result in high fuel consumption compared to modern vehicles. As a vehicle first registered in 1985, it may qualify for historic vehicle tax exemptions, which significantly reduces annual fixed costs.
Insurance costs will vary depending on the provider's classic car policies. Maintenance costs for this era of Ford are typically manageable due to the availability of parts, but specialized labor may be required for a vehicle of this age.
Check all external lighting, specifically the offside front position lamp which caused the failure in April 2025. Ensure the electrical system is functioning correctly across all switches.
Given the age of the vehicle, a detailed inspection of the chassis and floor pans is essential to identify any corrosion, as the provided MOT records are limited and do not detail structural condition. Inspect the engine bay for leaks around the 2.8L powerplant.
This blue 1985 Ford Capri features the 2792cc petrol engine and has recorded 86,563 miles. The most recent MOT history shows a pass in April 2025, following a failure on the same day for a non-working offside front position lamp.
No aggregate reliability data is available for the Ford Capri.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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