Highlights

Deliver new to the dry climes of Spain
Presented unmodified and original
Extremely well-preserved
Original 14-inch ‘Cloverleaf’ alloys
1.6i engine with 5-speed transmission

The Appeal

The RS Turbo may have been the fast Mk3 Escort that grabbed all the headlines, but we always had a soft-spot for the perky, naturally aspirated XR3i. Weighing in under a tonne and offering 105PS from its revvy 1.6-litre, fuel-injected engine, it was a spritely performer.

Of course, it’s now quite a rare car, especially in good condition as so many of them have succumbed to the ravages of time or the merciless hands of the modifiers. Thankfully, this lovely, solid example has escaped both ends. Having been delivered new into the warm and dry Spanish climate, and residing there until 2021, it shows in remarkably good order and appears to be largely original and unmodified.

As we said, these are becoming quite difficult to find now, especially in this kind of condition. So if you’re looking to relive the glory days of the hot hatch, or simply want to know what all the fuss is about, then this handsome fast Ford would be a great way to go…

The History and Paperwork

First registered in Spain in May 1985
The vehicle remained in Spain until 2021
102,566Km (five-figure odometer)
We’re told that the last technical inspection was passed on 28 April 2021
Presented in unmodified and largely original condition
Complete with a workshop manual, radio manual and a spare stereo

The Interior

Two-tone grey velour upholstery with blue piping, all showing in very nice condition, with no tears or notable wear in evidence
There’s a little creasing to the front seats, but no significant sagging we could see
Black carpeting is fitted in the cabin, and looks to be in reasonably good order, being complemented with black floor mats that feature red binding
Front electric windows
Genuine Ford-branded radio/cassette player, with aftermarket Clarion speakers installed in the parcel shelf
The driving control and other pieces of trim and switchgear present well, with no excessive wear and tear and no damage we could identify
The vendor does not report any issues with the cabin’s functions
At the back, the generous hatchback boot is lined with dark grey carpeting
Under the boot carpet, there is a full-size spare alloy wheel, while the boot floor itself shows in very good order, with no signs of damage or corrosion apparent

The Exterior

Red paintwork appears to be in good order, with some minor blemishing and a few chips and scratches, but only what is commensurate with the car’s age and mileage
The bodywork all looks to be in excellent condition, straight and true with no corrosion or notable damage to be seen
A brace of spotlights adorn the front bumper, while the integrated front fog lights are tinted yellow
The rear PU spoiler shows very well, with no signs of cracking or warping that we could discern
The rear windows have been tinted, and we’re assured this is within legal tolerances
Underneath, the car looks solid and clean, with no obvious issues or corrosion we could see
We love the period ‘Cloverleaf’ alloy wheels, these 14-inch items look to be in good used condition, with no major scuffs or marks, and are shod with a recently fitted set of Michelin tyres

The Mechanics

1,597cc fuel-injected, four-cylinder engine
Manual five-speed transmission
Front-wheel drive
Factory power ratings: 105PS and 137Nm
Manufacturer performance figures: 0-100Km/h in 9.7 seconds and a top speed of 186Km/h
We’re told that recently a new exhaust has been fitted, along with new brake pads
The vendor tells us that the cambelt was changed two years ago, and that the car has just been serviced – no faults or issues are reported

Summary

Presenting in fine, original condition, we think this lovely hot hatch makes an excellent case for itself. Clearly well-kept and as solid an example as we’ve seen in some time, this would be most welcome at any retro or classic show you care to mention.

Any questions?

Is there anything else you would like to know?
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BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.

✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes. On request, Car & Classic may refer you to a third-party shipping company. For more details, email auctions@carandclassic.com. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.