Ford Escort XR3, 1982
Ford Escort III
Ford Escort III•
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Chassis No.: WF0BXXGCABCL21553
Engine No.: CL21553
Registration: JNV 676Y
The Ford Escort is a small family car that was manufactured from 1968 to 2004 and was produced in six different model derivatives. The third version of the Ford Escort was launched in 1980. The car used Ford's contemporary design language of the period with the black louvred radiator grille and straked rear lamp clusters, as well as introducing the aerodynamic ‘bustle-back’ boot lid. Also new were the overhead camshaft CVH engines in 1.3 litre and 1.6 litre formats, the suspension was fully independent all around, departing from the archaic leaf spring arrangement found on its predecessors. The Escort Mk. III was voted European Car of the Year in 1981.
From launch, the car was available in base model (Popular), L, GL, Ghia and XR3 trim. A selection of features was available, either as standard fitment or optional extras depending on model, including a tilt-and-slide sunroof, central locking and electric windows. All models except for base and L were fitted with a check-light system for low fuel, low oil, low coolant, low screen wash and worn-out brake pads.
This lovely Ford XR3 has had a full body restoration which was completed in 2021, this after being laid up for many years. Fitted with the five-speed gearbox the engine has recently been gone through and the cylinder head overhauled, which has had a new camshaft and cam followers. Also fitted is a new weber carburettor with a manual choke. Finished in red with the original grey cloth interior and factory sunroof this Ford XR3 is supplied with a V5 registration document, an MoT test certificate which expires in April 2023, the original handbook pack and a file containing invoices and some photographs from the body restoration.
With 55,000 miles on the odometer which could be correct and requiring a little more work on the interior and dashboard this could be an investment for the future with the recent increase of interest in 1980’s/90’s hot hatch UK cars.
