HIGHLIGHTS
- Previously restored Special Edition XR3i Cabriolet
- Rare and desirable show-quality head-turner
- Fantastic condition throughout
- Extremely low mileage since 2006
- New MOT with no advisories
THE APPEAL
A huge seller for Ford in the late 1980’s and early ’90's, the Mk4 Escort continued to offer practical and affordable family motoring. Often overlooked, they largely succumbed to the ravages of everyday abuse, but sometimes, just sometimes, an unspoilt, rot-free original can be found…
In Ford tradition, sporty variants such as the XR3, XR3i and this desirable Special Edition Cabriolet enticed buyer’s into Ford showroom’s. Painted in distinctive colour combinations, Just 1,773 Special Edition XR3i Cabriolets were produced in Germany in 1989 and 1990.
Clearly owned by Ford enthusiasts, this beautiful XR3i was treated to a meticulous overhaul around ten years ago and has only travelled just over 6,000 miles since 2006.
The restoration included a full professional quality respray in Flambeau Red over Moonstone and a new soft-top outer skin. The front and rear suspension and brakes were renewed and factory specification features such as the RS spoiler and desirable Ford alloys remain - and look immaculate.
Just as impressive, is the relatively fresh-looking underside. The original 1,597 cc CVH engine and five-speed transmission are in place and a new ‘Pass’ MOT is provided. Definitely worth a look…
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
- First registered on the 8th January 1990
- V5 present (in previous owner’s name)
- Clear HPi check on the 4th July 2023
- Pioneer Owner’s Manual
- H4 Headlight Installation Guide
- The car has been garaged
- Very good MOT ‘Pass’ rate history
- Some previous MOT’s
- Recent ‘Pass’ MOT valid until the 8th August 2024
- Currently untaxed
The maintenance and refurbishment invoices are no longer with the car, but it is clear to see that the work has been lovingly carried out to a good standard and very few miles covered in the intervening years.
The mileage at the 2006 MOT was 72,147, so this Cabriolet has travelled a mere 6,137 miles in the last 17 years!.
THE INTERIOR
- Highly original and extremely presentable
- Superb dash with no obvious cracks
- Nice instrumentation and switchgear
- Functioning electric front windows and central locking
- Immobiliser removed but comes with the car
- Pioneer sound system with aux connection
- Good door cards, other than some minor damage to the driver’s side
- Excellent half-leather upholstery with some age-related scuffs
- Smooth powered roof with no rips and heated rear glass window
- Immaculate carpeted boot
- Good looking usable spare on a matching alloy
THE EXTERIOR
- Unmarked Flambeau Red and Moonstone coachwork
- Very straight bodywork with no obvious dents or dings
- Excellent wheel arches and sills
- LED front headlight conversion
- Clear windows, lights and mirrors
- Registration number etched windows
- RS rear spoiler in great condition
- Presentable trim and external detailing
- A couple of tiny scrapes on nearside front bumper
- Amazingly clean underside with no discernible corrosion
- Excellent silver-painted Ford alloys with no kerb damage
- Set of four Continental 185/60 R14 tyres with plenty of tread
THE MECHANICS
- Under the bonnet we find a very clean original looking bay
- 1,597 cc CVH engine producing around 108 bhp
- Ford EFi fuel injection system
- Standard Five-speed gearbox
- The steering and overhauled suspension are said to feel taught
- Servo-assisted brakes
- Although unconfirmed, the optional ABS may be fitted
- Relatively cheap and easy to fix mechanicals
Due to a lack of maintenance history to hand, a service check and cam belt change may be advisable for peace of mind.
During the photoshoot this stunning XR3i started without hesitation and ran sweetly. The vendor reports that it drives “just how it should” and is indeed “a rare find” in this condition.
SUMMARY
The XR3i cabriolet is a relative bargain today compared to the hatch, and with few remaining and interest in performance Ford’s rising, this rarity is without doubt an appealing proposition.
By-passed by the boy-racers, this show-quality car has obviously been restored and cared for by Ford enthusiasts who know their stuff and should offer the new custodian the chance enjoy some sporty modern-classic open-top motoring.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
