Stuart Whittaker - 1973 Ford Capri MK1 3.0 GXL

This immaculate Capri – affectionally named Colin – has been in Stuart’s family from new.

Purchased by his dad in 1973 to replace his Capri 1600 GT, Stuart just thought he’s replaced the roof! Colin was taken on family holidays and outings, and Stuart loved the excitement of going up and down the hills of South Wales.

In 1979, Colin found himself on the garage for safe keeping when dad was given a company car, not knowing that would be where he remained for the next 39 years, buried under boxes, carpet and even ladders.

All this provided the perfect insulation so when his dad offered Stuart the chance to own Colin in 2018, they found a true survivor car.

Stuart took the car to a friend’s garage to be restored during quieter times but as the garage got busier, it didn’t happen. The car was then sent to Capri restorer George Easton in Edinburgh.

Colin’s transformation began with an engine rebuilt, cylinder block acid dipped and cleaned, and modernisation to suit unleaded fuel. The bodywork was solid and only needed one panel replacing.

A respray of Diamond White paint, re-chromed brightwork and original specification steel wheels has resulted in this car being one of the best in existence.

When Colin returned home, Stuart shared the moment with his dad, and they went out for the Capri’s first drive in 41 years.

“Colin has plenty of admirers – but his biggest admirer is me!”