The 1978 Ford Capri Mk III 3.0 Group 1 is one of those rare machines that perfectly bridges past and present. It’s not just a collector’s piece, it’s a fully developed racing car built by Eichberg Racing, a team known for its serious touring car credentials. With a racing record that includes Nürburgring endurance events and a careful modern restoration, this Capri tells its story through every detail.
From the Deutsche Rundstrecken Pokal to the Nürburgring
Originally constructed for the 1978 season, this Capri was one of four cars campaigned by Eichberg Racing in Germany’s Deutsche Rundstrecken Pokal series. The schedule took it across Europe, from Hockenheim to Zolder, Zandvoort, and Kassel Calden. Drivers such as Klaus Niedzwiedz and Dieter Gartmann helped make this Ford a familiar sight on the touring car grid.
A Decade of Endurance and Performance
Its competition life didn’t stop in 1978. Through the early 1980s, the car continued to appear regularly at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, achieving strong finishes in long-distance events including the 1981 Nürburgring 24 Hours. Under Scuderia Monestaria Münster, it became a true endurance veteran, entering 39 consecutive races and achieving seven class wins.
Meticulous Restoration and Expert Development
Fast forward to today, the Capri has been restored and developed at a cost exceeding £130,000. Specialists Lavant Garage and Westbourne Motorsport handled the work, ensuring both authenticity and reliability. The effort was not about polishing a relic, it was about preserving a racer built to be driven.
Authentic Group 1 Power and Engineering
At its heart sits a correct Group 1-spec 3.0-litre “Essex” V6 engine, tuned by Ric Wood. The unit delivers robust performance while staying true to period specification. The gearbox matches the same level of precision, both components refreshed in February 2025 at an additional £6,500. In its latest race at the Goodwood Members’ Meeting, the car proved its competitiveness, finishing 11th overall.
Chassis Identity and Historic Documentation
While the chassis stamp isn’t visible, the car’s continuous race history identifies it as chassis number 23072. Some remnants of its original green livery remain beneath the current paint, a subtle reminder of its decades of competition. The car comes complete with its original Wagenpass and FIA HTP papers, underscoring its authenticity and eligibility for major historic events.
A Piece of Motorsport Legacy
This Capri represents a unique chapter in Ford’s touring car story, one that blends factory-level engineering with independent racing grit. It’s not about nostalgia; it’s about raw, usable performance grounded in history. Whether seen as a collector’s treasure or an entry ticket into historic racing, this 1978 Ford Capri Mk III 3.0 Group 1 remains a pure driving machine with a proven past.
Summary
Fastidiously restored, historically documented, and ready for competitive use, the 1978 Ford Capri Mk III 3.0 Group 1 by Eichberg Racing stands as a rare opportunity to experience genuine touring car heritage. It’s more than a car, it’s a survivor of motorsport’s golden era, preserved and perfected for the present day.
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Source & Details: rmsothebys.com
