The Mark IV Ford Escort XR3i is a sporty, seductive icon that frequented many driveways across Britain during the late 80s and early 90s, thanks to its appeal as a practical car with impressionable performance.
From teenagers to responsible parents, the Escort was the desirable motor for most but unfortunately, over the years its popularity with enthusiasts meant most were modified, raced around and ruined. As such there’s very little availability of original, unmolested examples in today's world.
This 1990 left-hand drive, Swiss-registered XR3i however is one of the few fortunate to have been untampered with plus its cared-for life in Switzerland has helped it avoid any familiar signs of decay.
As you peer into the XR3i, you’re reminded of the fantastic late 80s era where plastic and unique fabric patterns were the fashion. The sports seats are trimmed in the XR3i’s unique Zolda trim and are in good shape, there’s a little sign of use present but no harm to the fabric was visible, a clean is really all that's required.
The grey carpets are in fine condition and the headlining only features a few unimportant marks. The overall condition is really pleasant, the 59,000 miles covered in the car have had little impact and everything is reported to be in working order.
The rear spoiler has been painted red and contains a few blemishes
The sporty design of XR3i was styled to ‘match’ the performance. Front and rear spoilers were added as well as front spotlights, wider wheels and sports suspension. It's an attractive tearaway, with rebel allure, hence its appeal to the mischievous enthusiast.
Condition wise it's good, and while it does carry a couple of small dents and stone chips the body looks to be in fine order, especially underneath, with very little sign of anything untoward. In fact, in the areas you would expect to see signs of concern there’s nothing but clean, dry painted metal, a rare sight.
During our visit, the car was driven a few miles to a more suitable location for the photography to take place. The 1.6L engine started without any dramatics and proceeded to release a pleasing tone from the exhaust.
As we followed the car through the country lanes it danced with the road's contours, handling well and accelerating confidently out of junctions. Its documented history and cared-for life are quite evident when you lift up the bonnet, very few cars, especially classic Ford's, look that well kept.
A remarkable Escort XR3i and a tempting classic thanks to its cared-for condition. An increasingly rare sight and a great opportunity to own a classic icon.
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1990 Ford Escort XR3i (LHD)
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