eBay Classic Car Challenge

eBay RESTORATION LIVE is returning to Silverstone as the Classic’s official parts and accessories partner. This year, a team of top mechanics led by racing driver and car restorer Fergus Walkinshaw is on a mission to restore a classic 1984 Ford Capri live in front of festival-goers, using parts and accessories from eBay. Starting on Friday, they will race against the clock and – if all goes to plan – show off the 33-year-old, 2.8 Injection Capri on stage with Mike Brewer on Sunday. The finished car will then be sold on ebay.co.uk, with all proceeds going to the festival’s charity partner, Prostate Cancer UK.

The Capri is a complete original with no aftermarket modifications and has had just one owner from new. But with 85,000 miles on the clock – and barely any time on the road in the last decade – it needs a complete overhaul. The mechanics’ to-do list includes a full engine service, repairs to the suspension, drivetrain and braking system, repairs to rust and dents on the bodywork.

This year, the team will include a mechanic from Mission Motorsport, a charity which aids the recovery and rehabilitation of those affected by military operations by providing opportunities through motorsport. 

Once the 130mph Capri is mechanically sound again, Fergus will bring it up to near concourse condition, using a mixture of refurbished elements from the car and parts sourced from online marketplace eBay. The challenge is a completely different one to that faced by the team last year, when they renovated an iconic first-generation Range Rover to its original condition – a breakneck restoration described as “a miracle” by Mike Brewer when it roared onto the eBay stage.

Murray Lambell, eBay’s director of retail, said, “Last year’s Silverstone Classic crowds saw what a team at the very top of their game can achieve when the pressure is on. We’re delighted to welcome Fergus and the guys back to eBay RESTORATION LIVE in 2017 and I can’t wait to see how they transform this automotive icon of the ‘80s.

“Whether you love the Capri, restorations or you’re just a car enthusiast, RESTORATION LIVE will have something for you – just like eBay itself.”

Fergus Walkinshaw, Founder of FW Motorsport, said, “Restoring the Range Rover in just three days was a tremendous achievement last year, one of which we’re extremely proud. Preparation is key, so we’ve been busy sourcing the parts and accessories from eBay’s range of sellers. It’s now game on!”

Watch the restoration unfold by visiting Fergus across the weekend in the Purple Zone near the Village Green bus stop. And keep on top of the latest developments by following updates on eBay’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/eBay.co.uk/)