Arguably the brainchild of ex-Lotus F1 driver, John Miles, the Ford Capri Tickford Turbo was unveiled in prototype guise at the 1982 Birmingham Motor Show.

Developed by Aston Martin Tickford Ltd (the famous Newport Pagnell manufacturer's special projects wing), the newcomer was based on a standard MKIII Capri 2.8 Injection.

Visually distinguished by the lift-reducing GRP mouldings on the nose, flanks and tail, the fixed-head was credited with a 0.37 drag coefficient.

Reworked with the addition of an IHI turbocharger and Garrett intercooler, its 2,792cc Cologne V6 drove the rear wheels via a 5-speed manual gearbox.

Upgraded with four-wheel disc brakes, the muscular 2+2 coupé also benefited from power-assisted rack and pinion steering and A-frame reinforced rear suspension.

Credited with 205bhp and 260lb/ft of torque, the high-performance model was capable of 0-60mph in 6.0 seconds and 139.8mph.

Priced at an immodest £14,985, it came with Recaro front seats and a leather-topped Wa...