Lot details
Registration No: UWE 99Y
Chassis No: WFOBXXGCABCA67406
Mot Expiry: March 2007

Launched alongside the rest of the Escort MKIII range in September 1980, the XR3 was an instant success (accounting for a reported 11,000 sales during the following year). Intended as a rival to the Volkswagen Golf GTi, its monocoque bodyshell (complete with 'aerodeck' hatchback) boasted all round independent suspension (Macpherson strut front / trailing-arm rear) and disc / drum brakes. Powered by a 1597cc OHC four-cylinder engine mated to four-speed manual transmission (five-speed from February 1982 onwards), it proved quick but unruly. Conscious that the planned introduction of fuel injection would bring yet more speed, Ford charged its SVE (Special Vehicle Engineering) department with taming the hot hatch's wayward handling. Begun in October 1981 and overseen by Ron Mansfield, the XR3i project bore fruit in just fifteen months. Unveiled in January 1983, the revised model featured - as its name implied - Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection. Credited with developing 105bhp and 101lbft of torque, the Fast Ford was reputedly capable of 120mph and 0-60mph in 8.5 seconds. Built in Saarlouis (Germany), it boasted a more comfortable ride as well as better road manners courtesy of its lowered / recalibrated suspension. Distinguished like its forebear by 'cloverleaf' alloys and a prominent tailgate lip spoiler, the XR3i captured the imagination of a generation. A cult car among 'boy racers' of all ages, it is still prized to this day.
Finished in sunburst red with grey velour / cloth upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "very good" (engine, five-speed manual gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis) or "excellent" (paintwork, bodywork, wheels / tyres) order. Said to have been "fully rust-proofed from new", this "totally original XR3i" is believed but not warranted to have covered just 60,521 miles since leaving the showroom twenty-three years ago. Reportedly "correctly detailed with all the important areas such as the battery tray / engine compartment in fantastic condition", it is offered for sale with "12 months" MOT certificate.