Description
FOR SALE
JF Classic Cars are delighted to offer for sale this exceptional 1982 Mk1 Ford Fiesta XR2 presented in its iconic and highly desirable Sunburst Red finish
A true hot hatch of the early 1980s, this beautifully preserved example represents a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike
DESCRIPTION
The 1982 model represents one of the earliest examples of the XR2, built during the relatively short production run of the Mk1 before the arrival of the Mk2 Fiesta in 1983. As with many affordable performance cars of the era, a significant number were used as everyday transport, modified extensively, involved in motorsport or simply succumbed to corrosion, resulting in relatively few well-preserved, factory-correct examples surviving today
EXTERNAL
Finished in its correct factory Ford Sunburst Red (Paint Code P) this 1982 Mk1 Ford Fiesta XR2 presents exactly as an early example should. The bodywork displays a deep, uniform gloss across every panel from front to rear, with the finish remaining consistent throughout. Panel alignment is particularly impressive, with crisp, even shut lines and pin-sharp panel gaps that reflect the care this XR2 has received over the years.
At the front, the unmistakable black slatted grille proudly houses the XR2's legendary round headlamps a styling feature synonymous with Ford's first-generation hot hatch. Mounted between the factory specification driving lamps remain in place completing the purposeful appearance that made the XR2 instantly recognisable when new. The wrap-around black bumpers front and rear have been well preserved and remain in excellent order retaining their correct finish without detracting from the car's originality.
Along each flank, the factory-correct sweeping XR2 decals sit straight and accurately positioned perfectly complementing the Sunburst Red coachwork. The colour-coded door mirrors remain true to the original specification while the external door seals have aged exceptionally well, remaining free from the tarnishing so often associated with examples of this period.
The original lighting units, both front and rear remain clear, damage-free and present exactly as intended further reinforcing the car's well-preserved nature. To the rear, the factory boot lid spoiler sits square and correctly aligned, while all exterior badging remains correctly positioned with a bright finish, providing the finishing touches to what is an exceptionally honest and highly original Mk1 Fiesta XR2. Collectively, the exterior is a testament to careful ownership and sympathetic preservation, presenting just as a cherished XR2 should.
INTERNAL
Stepping inside, the cabin immediately reflects the originality and careful preservation that define this 1982 Mk1 Ford Fiesta XR2. The interior remains remarkably true to factory specification, with the distinctive grey pinstripe cloth upholstery to both the front and rear seats presenting in excellent condition. The front seats retain their original integrated headrests, offering the sporting appearance that became synonymous with the XR2, while displaying only light signs of use consistent with a cherished, low-mileage example.
The matching door cards remain equally well preserved, with the correct patterned inserts complementing the seats and creating a cohesive period interior. Underfoot, the original grey carpeting presents extremely well with only minimal wear evident, further supporting the car's remarkably low recorded mileage of just over 41, 000 miles from new. It is an interior that has clearly been cared for rather than restored, retaining the character and authenticity that collectors actively seek.
Ahead of the driver, the original dashboard remains beautifully intact. The simple yet purposeful blend of black and grey trim perfectly captures the design language of Ford's early 1980s performance models, while the centrally mounted push-button heater fan controls remain exactly where enthusiasts expect to find them
Directly in front of the driver sits the iconic XR2 instrument binnacle, complete with its signature red pinstripe detailing surrounding the clearly legible speedometer, tachometer, fuel and engine temperature gauges a layout that instantly transports you back to the golden era of the hot hatch.
The factory three-spoke grey steering wheel remains in impressive condition, exhibiting only minimal wear entirely consistent with the car's modest mileage. Between the seats, the original centre console houses the factory push-button radio cassette, an open storage cubby hole and the correct four-speed manual gear lever, completing an interior that is refreshingly untouched.
Everything about the cabin feels honest, well preserved and unmistakably original. Rather than being over-restored, it retains the appearance, textures and atmosphere that made the Mk1 XR2 such a desirable driver's car when new. For enthusiasts and collectors alike, this is precisely the sort of authentic interior that is becoming increasingly difficult to find, adding further appeal to an already exceptional and increasingly rare Fiesta XR2.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
Lifting the bonnet reveals the heart of the Mk1 Fiesta XR2 Ford's renowned 1. 6-litre Kent Crossflow engine, a powerplant that earned an enviable reputation for its simplicity, durability and eager performance. Producing approximately 84bhp when new, it provided the lightweight XR2 with the lively character that helped establish it as one of the defining hot hatches of the early 1980s
Straightforward to maintain and well supported by the classic Ford community, the Kent engine remains one of the most respected and recognisable engines of its era.
Power is transmitted through the correct factory four-speed manual gearbox that perfectly suits the XR2's lightweight chassis. The clutch take-up is smooth and progressive, making the car easy to drive, while each gear engages positively with the gearbox pulling strongly and cleanly throughout the rev range. The engine responds willingly, delivering the eager performance and unmistakable character enthusiasts have come to expect from a well-sorted XR2.
WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
Completing the unmistakable stance of this 1982 Mk1 Ford Fiesta XR2 are its correct factory 13-inch silver 'Pepperpot' alloy wheels one of the model's most recognisable design features. Finished in the correct silver colour tone each alloy presents in beautiful condition, with crisp edges, an even finish and none of the deterioration often seen on lesser examples. They perfectly complement the Sunburst Red coachwork and remain an integral part of the XR2's distinctive period appearance.
Fitted to each corner are period 185/ 60/ R13 tyres providing an excellent balance between authentic appearance and usable road manners. T
Behind the wheels sits the XR2's proven braking system, comprising servo-assisted front disc brakes with self-adjusting rear drum brakes, a specification that was more than capable of matching the car's lively performance when introduced
The system delivers progressive pedal feel and predictable stopping power, complementing the lightweight chassis and providing the confidence expected from one of Ford's flagship sporting models of the period. The combination of front discs and rear drums was a well-engineered and dependable arrangement, offering straightforward maintenance while remaining entirely in keeping with the car's original factory design.
Collectively, the wheels, tyres and braking system present exactly as a well-preserved Mk1 Fiesta XR2 should. They not only enhance the car's visual appeal but also preserve the authentic driving characteristics that have made the XR2 such an enduring favourite amongst Ford enthusiasts. Finding an example that continues to retain its correct specification and period-correct presentation is becoming increasingly uncommon, making this a particularly appealing proposition for the discerning collector
HISTORY FILE
First registered on the 19th July 1982 having covered just over 41000 miles from new, Retaining dealer book pack which includes owners manual, Audio manual and Ford leaflets
Various historic invoices enclosed for consumables and the odd MOT certificate along with original Ford Keys
The opportunity to acquire an honest, well-preserved Mk1 Ford Fiesta XR2 is becoming increasingly rare. As the years pass, original examples continue to disappear, making cars that have escaped modification, neglect and excessive restoration ever more desirable amongst collectors and marque enthusiasts. This 1982 example embodies everything that made the XR2 such an icon, retaining the character, specification and authenticity that are so often missing today.
Whether destined for a carefully curated Ford collection, displayed amongst other significant performance cars or simply enjoyed on the open road during fair-weather motoring, this XR2 offers an ownership experience that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate. It represents a pivotal chapter in Ford's performance history and stands as one of the cars that defined the hot hatch era.
For the discerning collector or successful business professional seeking an appreciating modern classic with genuine provenance and enduring appeal, this Fiesta XR2 is an investment in both nostalgia and automotive heritage. Its originality, low recorded mileage and highly desirable Sunburst Red finish combine to create an exceptionally attractive proposition.
Opportunities to purchase examples of this calibre are few and far between. For those who appreciate authenticity over imitation and preservation over restoration, this is a Mk1 Fiesta XR2 that deserves serious consideration one that is ready to be admired today and cherished for many years to come
v5 Present & HPi Clear.
