Description
The Bolesworth Castle May 2024 Classic & Performance Car Auction
Sunday, 12th May 2024
1991 Ford Escort XR3I
Registration - H741 ELX
Chassis No - WF0BXXGCABLM65308
M. O. T. - April 2025
Odometer - 90, 000
Presented in Diamond White, this Ford Escort XR3i will transport many back to the late '80s and early '90s in an instant. A late example, ‘H741 ELX’ is a face-lifted Mk IV Escort XR3i, featuring the red decals and bumper trim that is almost expected of performance models of the period. Under the bonnet sits Ford’s 1. 6-litre four-cylinder CVH petrol engine, pushing out 106bhp when new, and hooked up to a five-speed manual transmission.
With the distinctive rear-wing mounted to the trailing edge, the three-door hatchback comes in original 1991 specification inside and out. Sporting intentions come in the shape of that wing, as well as the multi-spoke alloy wheels. The XR3i’s position towards the top of the trim levels is clear when taking in fitted equipment such as a sunroof, and electric mirrors and windows. Inside, thoroughly in keeping with the period, a grey fabric interior is livened by a red and blue hatched motif for panels in the doors and seats. Sports seats are fitted in the front, with prominent bolsters to further emphasise the sporty changes.
Offered with a full Ford service history, including original manuals, ‘H741 ELX’ comes with a displayed 90, 000 miles, unwarranted but considered genuine by the current owner. Looking to be in good overall condition for its age, this Escort XR3i’s paintwork is reckoned to be ‘average’ by the seller, but the electrics, bodywork, and interior are deemed ‘good’, and the powertrain – engine and transmission – are rated as being in ‘excellent’ condition.
Ford offered its XR3i over three different generations of Escorts – the Mk III, Mk IV, and Mk V. Arriving with the Mk III in 1982, the XR3 was developed to compete with the likes of VW’s Golf GTI and Peugeot 205 GTi. Initially, it was fitted with a tuned version of Ford’s 1. 6-litre CVH engine, fitted with a Weber carburettor, plus uprated suspension and styling tweaks to emphasise the sporting potential. It wasn’t until later in 1982 that the ‘i’ part of the badge was added, with fuel injection fitted. The XR3i continued with the arrival of the fourth-generation Escort, which arrived in 1986, and was a largely refreshed version of the previous model.
· Iconic model packed with original features.
· Late example of Ford’s Escort XR3i.
· Comes with full Ford service history.
This Car has been entered into Hampson Auctions, The Bolesworth classic and performance car and motorcycle auction, which will be held at Bolesworth Castle, Tattenhall, Chester, CH3 9JJ on Sunday 12th May 2024.
Viewing sessions will take place at Bolesworth castle from 9am - 7pm on Saturday 11th May and from 9am - 12:00 on Sunday 12th May, with the auction itself commencing at 12pm on Sunday 12th May, and you are very welcome to join us there.
Prospective buyers can bid in the room, online, over the telephone or via commission, please contact Hampson Auctions directly if you would like to arrange one of the latter two options, or if you would like to request a condition report.
The auction catalogue so far is available to view via our website.
Auction entries are currently still being accepted, if you have a vehicle which you would like to consign, please contact us.
£6000 - £8000
Buyer's Premium 12. 5%
