Full Description
SORRY NOW SOLD – SIMILAR WANTED
An original early collectors Ford Escort XR3i Mk4 with only 26,580 miles.
EQUIPMENT
Body-coloured bumpers with integral overriders, grey body side mouldings with black inserts, front and rear spoilers, tinted glass, quartz digital clock, cigar lighter, Ford ESRT 32PS radio/cassette, ‘joystick’ speaker balance control, cassette and coin stowage, tachometer, glove box light illumination, boot light, dual tone horn, sports two-spoke soft feel steering wheel. Factory options; Tilt-or-slide glass sunroof, alloy wheels.
EXTERIOR
This incredible very early Mk4 XR3i has been preserved in stunning original condition and is a true delight for any blue oval connoisseur. Finished in the factory Rosso Red (code R5) a colour used only for a handful of early Mk4’s prior to the release of Radiant Red, this example certainly represents a rare survivor. The finish to the paintwork is superb with a deep glossy uniform shine throughout and no evidence of common fading or loss of red pigment. Various imperfections can be seen which include a small ding on the bonnet and paint blemishes. The vehicle has always been garaged and the rear bumper and boot spoiler have been painted. The underside is dry and would benefit from a light coating of wax. Original items such as the supplying Ford Dealer number plates are still fitted. A classic retro hot hatch Ford remaining precisely true to the manufacturer and the 1980’s, superb!
INTERIOR
Having covered such low mileage the Daytona patterned seat fabric, (code SF), is utterly pristine. Ford aficionados will marvel in the factory fresh ambience of this interior which still retains a characteristic and distinctive Ford aroma! The colour-keyed cut pile carpet is unmarked and the unique Cool Black XR3i headlining is clean and tight. The moulded door trim panels including the soft-feel armrests and stowage bins are in excellent order but the material on the armrest has lifted slightly. The door pulls prone to usage related markings are almost wear free. The small two spoke sports steering wheel is commensurate with the low miles covered with all manufacturer veins still prominent. All interior instrumentation, switch gear and ventilation operate correctly including the original Ford ESRT 32PS radio/cassette with ‘joystick’ speaker balance control. Often misused, the phrase ‘time warp’ feels truly appropriate.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
Standard in every respect and a purists dream, this 1.6 litre engine with Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection has been recommissioned following an extended period of non-use since 1992. The engine bay is spotlessly clean with manufacturer stickers and plates visible along with clear stampings to the inner wings. A crisp, responsive 104bhp offers hugely entertaining driving manners and very swift performance. A top speed of 115mph and 0-60mph in 9.6 seconds feels spirited thanks to a kerb weight of just 945kg. The 5-speed transmission is light, precise and a joy to use.
WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
The optional alloy wheels are unrestored with Ford emblem and lettering prominent, and will need refurbishment if perfection is desired. The 185/60 R14 tyres have excellent tread remaining and the spare wheel retains the original Dunlop D40 along with two original Dunlop items retained with the car. The diagonally-split dual-line servo assisted brakes with front discs and self-adjusting rear drums stop the car quickly and safely.
HISTORY FILE
Supplied new by Ford Main Dealers, Crystal of Hull Ltd on the 12th August 1986 this example had two keepers within its first year of life. The third keeper, Mr John Hallam, a retired professor purchased the car in October 1987 and it has remained in his name ever since. Mr Hallam enjoyed the car as his pride and joy for five years before stopping driving for health reasons. Garage stored for the last 23 years, KGF Classic Cars were delighted to source this real ‘garage find’ preserved in truly remarkable condition. Recent recommissioning costs instructed by KGF Classic Cars amounting to £1,235.02 includes service work, brake overhaul, cambelt renewal, exhaust and MOT to enable immediate use.
The original service booklet contains annual stamped entries for the cars early years prior to storage as well as the most recent entry in May 2015. The vehicle handbook and radio guide also form part of the history file as well as two original keys to operate all locks.
HPI Clear.
