Note: In March 2026 Pterodactyl Racing announced that it is closing its doors. The Capri and other items are now for sale.

Pterodactyl Racing a short history

The Pterodactyl Capri story began when a fellow SVRA (Sportscar Vintage Racing Association) racer connected with Ira Schoen to investigate the possibilities of a vintage race Capri. The SVRA vintage cutoff for small-bore Trans Am class is documented racing prior to January 1, 1973. The Capri, after much research, was confirmed as being owned by a racer in Connecticut. This car did not fare well. His race Capri competed in a few, 2.5 liter Challenge Trans Am races in 1972: one at Lime Rock, the other at Watkin s Glen, and one Camel GT Three hours at Bryar. Other cars competed in the Trans Am 2.5 Challenge included Pintos, Alfas GTVs, BMW 2002s, Datsun 510s, Triumph Vitesses, Mini-Coopers, and a Ford Escort to name a few. The Alfa's and 510's were the cars to beat in the early 1970's series.

The Capri

This capri was in poor condition when it was first observed. The red shell was dull, no engine, inadequate wheels, roll cage, electrics, interior, and very little suspension. It had the 1974 tail light units instead of the 1970/72 version, and bondo galore. The red Capri's appearance looked like it had last competed in IMSA's (International Motor Sports Association) Champion Spark Plug Challenge during the mid 1970's -- having later been picked over and discarded and left to die.

Ira and his teammates spent the better part of two years restoring this very special and unique race Capri. From all accounts, it was (and is) the only Capri to have raced in the SCCA's Two-Five Trans Am Challenge. Taking parts from the ITB Capri and other parts from his personal 20 year inventory, the work was lovingly completed in 1992. In it's inaugural event in Mid-Ohio, the Capri finished fourth, due to overheating. The next race was at Watkins Glen, where he won that year (1992). This was followed by a DNF at Elkhart Lake (driveshaft) in 1993, another first place at Roebling Road in 1993, and a DNS at Mid-Ohio (carbrator problems). The next event was Watkin's Glen in 1995 where we took another first!

Trans Am Capri Specifications

Body	Weight = approximately 2000 lbs Height = 48 inches Built to 1972 Trans Am Racing Specs.
Engine	approximately 175 bhp twin Weber DCOE 45 carbs compression of 12.5:1
Drive Train	4 speed stock rear drums stock front-discs with racing Ferrodo DS-11 pads
Suspension	locked-rear end with radius rods, panhard bar and monoleaf rear springs

For more information and the latest news please visit the Pterodactyl Racing web site.