When it comes to classic cars, Ford has produced some truly unique and rare models over the years. While many are familiar with the Mustang or the Model T, there are several lesser-known gems that have captured the imagination of car enthusiasts. Here are nine of the rarest classic Fords you might not have heard of but are worth getting to know.
1. Ford GT70
The Ford GT70 was developed in the early 1970s as a rally car intended to compete with the likes of the Porsche 911. Unfortunately, Ford only built six prototypes before abandoning the project due to high costs and engineering challenges. The GT70 featured a mid-mounted 1.6-liter V4 engine and a lightweight fiberglass body, making it a formidable competitor in theory. Despite its potential, the GT70 never made it to mass production, and finding one today is extremely rare. These cars are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the unique place the GT70 holds in Ford’s storied history.
2. Ford Consul Capri
The Ford Consul Capri was introduced in 1961 as a stylish coupe aimed at the growing European market. With its sleek lines and American-inspired design, it was a car that turned heads. However, its production run was short-lived, with only about 19,000 units produced until 1964. Its rarity today makes it a desirable classic car among collectors. One of the standout features of the Consul Capri was its optional GT package, which included a more powerful engine and sportier suspension. This model is especially hard to find, adding to the allure of the Consul Capri for those who appreciate vintage Ford automobiles.
3. Ford RS200
The Ford RS200 is a legendary rally car from the 1980s, designed to compete in the infamous Group B rally series. With only 200 road-legal versions ever made, it remains one of the rarest Fords. The RS200 was powered by a turbocharged 1.8-liter engine that produced over 250 horsepower, making it incredibly fast and agile. Its aggressive styling and impressive performance capabilities have made the RS200 a cult favorite among car enthusiasts. The RS200’s rarity and historical significance in rally racing make it a highly coveted vehicle today. If you’re interested in rare rally cars, check out this Toyota Celica for another unique find.
4. Ford P68
Also known as the Ford F3L, the P68 was a prototype sports car developed in 1968 for endurance racing. With its aerodynamic design and lightweight construction, the P68 was intended to challenge established competitors like Ferrari and Porsche. However, reliability issues and a lack of development funding meant that the P68 never achieved its full potential. Despite its limited success on the track, the P68’s striking design and rarity make it a fascinating piece of Ford’s racing history. Only a handful of these cars were ever built, and they are now considered highly collectible.
5. Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt
Introduced in 1964, the Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt was a limited-production drag racing car that became an icon of American muscle. With a powerful 427 cubic inch V8 engine under the hood, the Thunderbolt was designed to dominate the drag strip, and it did just that. Only 100 units were produced, making the Thunderbolt an exceedingly rare find today. Its legacy as one of the most formidable drag racers of its time endures, and it continues to capture the imagination of those passionate about American automotive history. For more on unique vehicles, take a look at this rare Ford U-Haul truck.
6. Ford Mustang SSP
The Ford Mustang SSP was a special service package developed in the 1980s for law enforcement use. Based on the Fox-body Mustang, these cars were equipped with performance upgrades to serve as high-speed pursuit vehicles. Over 15,000 units were produced, but finding one today that remains in good condition is rare. With their unique role in law enforcement history and distinct modifications, the Mustang SSPs are a fascinating chapter in the Mustang’s legacy. They have become popular among collectors who seek out these specialized vehicles.
7. Ford Capri Perana
The Ford Capri Perana was a high-performance variant of the Capri, developed in South Africa by Basil Green Motors during the early 1970s. It featured a 5.0-liter V8 engine, turning the Capri into a true muscle car. Only a few hundred were produced, making it a rare gem among classic Fords. The Capri Perana’s combination of European styling and American muscle made it a standout performer on the track and a highly desirable collector’s item today. Its rarity and unique origin story contribute to its enduring appeal.
8. Ford Sierra XR4i
The Ford Sierra XR4i was introduced in 1983 as a sporty variant of the Sierra, featuring a 2.8-liter V6 engine and distinctive styling elements like the bi-plane rear spoiler. Though it sold well in Europe, the XR4i never made it to the U.S. market, which contributes to its rarity stateside. Enthusiasts appreciate the XR4i for its performance and unique styling, and it remains a sought-after model among classic car collectors. Its place in Ford’s history as a precursor to the later Sierra RS Cosworth further adds to its collectible status.
9. Ford Cortina Savage
The Ford Cortina Savage was a modified version of the Cortina, created by Jeff Uren’s Race Proved Performance and Racing Equipment Ltd. in the late 1960s. It featured a Ford V6 engine, which turned the Cortina into a high-performance sedan. Only a limited number were produced, making the Savage a rare find today.
This unique take on the Cortina offered impressive power and performance, and its rarity has made it a coveted piece among collectors. The Savage’s legacy as a modified classic Ford continues to grow as enthusiasts seek out this remarkable vehicle. For more on rare finds, explore these obscure Peanuts comics.
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