Ah, the Ford Capri! The handsome coupe was Europe's version of the Mustang, built from components of British Ford sedans, just as the former was constructed from Falcon part bins. This year marks the Capri's 40th anniversary, nearly two-million having been produced during its 18-year run. Much-modified V-6 Capris raced in European Touring Car championships during the 70s, frequently beating their BMW competitors. Beginning in 1970 North Americans also got the Capri, available from Mercury dealerships.

From June 5-7 2009, the Capri Club North America will be holding its 9th Annual Capris at Carlisle show and are lobbying the show's organizers to establish a class for European-built models. West coast Capri fans can attend a gathering at the Pacific Northwest Import Ford Meet on June 6, the same weekend as the Carlisle event. On September 5-7, CCNA holds its annual Capri Swarm in Columbus, Ohio.

With decent examples selling for as little as $3,000 to $4,000 the Ford/Mercury Capri is an affordable and as yet unappreciated collectible. Oh, and if you could thumb through various European magazines in the early 70s, you'd find Capri ads where the copywriter was, gasp!, yours truly.

Thanks to David LaChance of the Hemmings newsletter for this event information.