Ascona 400 : There's (399) more where that came from!

This is one of a very small batch of very special Opel Asconas. We called it Ascona 400, because that's how many there will be. And while the majority will win themselves a place in connoisseurs' collections, some of them are destined to win international fame.

The standard Opel Ascona is renowned for its superb dynamic qualities and outstanding reliability. The Ascona 400 exploits that sporting potential to the full.

In addition to its sophisticated 16-valve engine, performance was boosted still further by intensive wind tunnel testing, resulting in a lower drag coefficient and increased stability (front end lift was cut by 50%, while that at the rear was reduced by almost 100%!). And although the Ascona 400 makes a spectacular yet practical road car, its design features make it easy to prepare for effective competition use.

Look what it offers:- 2.4 litre, 16-valve engine with crossflow head and chain-driven, twin overhead camshafts * 144bhp(DIN) at 5200rpm, 155lb/ft torque at 3800rpm * 5-bearing crankshaft with 8 balance weights * Electronic fuel injection * 5-speed gearbox, with optional heavy-duty close-ratio version also available * 9" single dry-plate clutch * Choice of 3.18:1 or 3.45:1 rear axle ratios * 80% locking differential * Gas-filled shock absorbers * Specially uprated front and rear suspension with 5-link back axle * Light alloy 6Jx15 wheels with ultra-low profile 205/50 VR 15 steel-braced tyres * Front and rear spoilers, plus side spoilers linking wheel arch extensions.

Performance: 0-62mph in 7.6 secs. Top speed (depending on rear axle ratio) 125+ mph.

Capri 2.8 Turbo by Tickford

Ford's Capri 2.8 Injection combines the styling and performance of a supercar with the space, comfort and convenience of a family-sized hatchback. It is also exceptionally good value for money.

But some people want even more power and comfort. That's why the 2.8 Injection, a great car in its own right, has been turned into something really special by Aston Martin Tickford.

The sensational transformation has been achieved without altering the Capri's basic bodywork. However, it has panels of tough, glass reinforced plastic which are neatly bolted to the Capri's nose, flanks and tail. These reduce the drag factor to 0.37 while lift at the front and rear is reduced by more than 40 per cent.

Under the bonnet is the Ford 2.8 Injection engine, married to a very compact IHI turbocharger with a Garrett intercooler, AFT digital computerised ignition plus Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection.

The engine delivers a massive 205bhp and 260 lb/ft of torque. As the figures clearly indicate there is plenty of muscle where it's really appreciated - between 2000 and 4000rpm to provide vivid acceleration.

At the rear, Tickford fit a limited-slip differential and an 'A' frame to provide additional location for the axle. The rear drum and brakes are replaced by 10.43" discs to cope with the extra performance.

Inside there is a leather-trimmed walnut fascia with a full set of instruments. Door panels are trimmed in carpet, velour and leather with leather trim for the rear quarter panels and three-spoke steering wheel. Tickford retain the Recaro seats.

Options at extra cost range from a stainless-steel exhaust system and Pirelli P7 tyres to a complete retrim in Connolly hide and Wilton carpet for the interior boot.

Great expectations become reality when the turbocharged Capri takes to the road. Tickford claim a 0-60mph time of just over six seconds and Autocar recorded 5.3 seconds for the 50-70mph sprint in fourth gear, while dropping to third spanned the same gap in only 3.8 seconds.

In short, Aston Martin Tickford have transformed the Capri's fine pedigree into a world beater with performance, handling, looks and refinement to challenge virtually any car regardless of the price.

The Paul Emery Imp : How low can you get?

Take a look at the pic. And you'll find our Imp's a little lower than the ordinary. We call it the Paul Emery Low-Line look. It gives you a 10% increase in aerodynamic efficiency. Which means your top speed goes up. And your fuel consumption goes down. All by 10%. Ex-Works, the complete conversion will put you back around £115.