When the Capri was launched, in 1969, its no-nonsense handling and roadholding and, in 3-litre form, its impressive performance, singled it out from the bland and anonymous saloons of the late 1960s. Capris were straightforward, easy to drive and simple to maintain, and their popularity has been sustained largely because of this. Their simplicity of design and inherent ruggedness makes them ideal candidates for DIY restoration. The booming owners' club movement and the continuing avilability of spare parts ensures that these cars will have a strong following for many years to come.

Kim Henson has had an interest in cars for as long as he can remember. He was a staff writer on Practical Motorist from 1978 to 1985, and since then has been working as a full-time freelance writer, producing features for a number of motoring publications including Practical Motorist and Practical Classics. He lives at Poole in Dorset.