Model specs

1981-1986 FORD Escort XR3/XR3i

Overview

With cars like the Volkswagen Golf stealing sales, the MkIII Escort of 1980 moved to a front-wheel-drive hatchback configuration to compete. The XR3 had the Golf GTI firmly as its target. A tuned 1597cc CVH engine produced 96bhp thanks to a twin-choke carburettor, while front and rear spoilers and blacked-out trim made it visually appealing to Eighties eyes. Better was to come though with the fuel injected XR3i of 1983. Boy racers soon fell in love with the XRs, in the same way their fathers had with the old rear-wheel-drive Escorts.

Price at launch: £5750

Price (excellent): £4000

Price (good): £2500

Price (average): £1000

Price (project): £300

Performance

0-60mph:9.7secs

Top speed:113mph

Power:94bhp

Torque:97lb/ft

MPG:30mpg

Engine

Configuration:in-line four

Aspiration:normal

Fuel:petrol

Fuel delivery:carburettor

Chassis

Suspension Front: Independent, MacPherson struts, coil springs

Suspension Rear: Independent, pressed lateral arms and trailing tie-bars, coil springs

Drivetrain: front-engine FWD

Steering: rack and pinion

Bodyframe: metal monocoque

Transmission: Five-speed manual

Dimensions

Length: 3970mm

Wheelbase: 2395mm

Width: 1640mm

Height: 1400mm

Weight: 970kgs