1985 FORD ESCORT XR3I

KEY FACTS 

• A highly original example of the iconic 1980s hot hatch, finished in a period-correct colour scheme.   
• Under the bonnet sits a 1.6-litre ‘CVH’ naturally aspirated inline-four, delivering 105bhp to the front wheels through a five-speed manual transmission.  
• This original left-hand drive Escort XR3i is in good mechanical condition with a recently replaced exhaust, brake pads and tyres. 
• A new cam belt was fitted two years ago. 

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES 

• This XR3i is finished in red with a black rubber rear spoiler over a grey cloth-trimmed interior. 
• It sits on its original 14-inch ‘cloverleaf’ alloy wheels, shod with recently fitted Michelin tyres. 
• Included in the factory specification are electric front windows and a Ford-branded radio/cassette player.  
• Aftermarket Clarion speakers have been mounted in the rear parcel shelf. 
• The windows have been tinted to a legally approved level. 
• Accompanying the car is the workshop manual, radio manual, and a spare stereo. 

CONDITION 

• There is no known bodywork damage. 
• The red paintwork presents excellently, with two small scratches and a minor imperfection on the front bumper, and a mark reported under the rear left window. 
• Moving inside, the grey cloth-trimmed cabin is in very good condition, showing only some minor wear on the front seats. 
• The ceiling-mounted clock is non-functional, and one of the two radios supplied with the vehicle is faulty. 
• The most recent roadworthiness test was carried out on 28 April 2021, resulting in a clean first-time pass. 

SERVICE HISTORY 

• This Escort XR3i’s engine oil, oil filter, and spark plugs were replaced during its most recent service. 
• Within the last year, a new exhaust has been fitted, as well as replacement brake pads, tyres, and headlight bulbs. 
• The cam belt was replaced two years ago.  

SUMMARY 

The Ford Escort XR3i is a sought-after 1980s hot hatch, combining a sporting aesthetic with ample pace and sharp handling to create what Auto Express magazine described as a “performance legend”. This once-commonplace performance hatchback is now rarely seen in such original and unmodified condition, making this example an excellent addition to any collection of fast Fords, as well as an enjoyable weekend cruiser. 

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