Description
When Ford launched the Escort XR3, the benchmark VW Golf GTi had ruled the hot hatchback market for several years. However, Ford’s new offering was a package that combined the looks, performance, and handling demanded by customers in the early eighties. With the introduction of the fuel injected XR3i in 1983, performance was further improved and the XR range captivated a new younger audience who had moved on from the old rear-wheel drive Escorts beloved by their parents.
Also introduced in 1983, the Escort Cabriolet in both XR3i and Ghia specifications was Ford of Europe’s first convertible since the 1960s. Based around a reinforced monocoque chassis, the convertible was engineered by German coachbuilder Karmann. An elegant and practical design, it featured the same all-round independent suspension, rack and pinion steering and brakes as its more common hatchback siblings. Powered by a fuel-injected 1597cc SOHC four-cylinder engine allied to a five-speed manual transmission, the XR3i Cabriolet was capable of nearly 120mph and became the ‘darling’ of the 1980s overnight.
This stunning 1990 XR3i is finished in a very sporting and period shade of ice white with a classic grey interior and is in truly remarkable condition having lived a sheltered life in the care of the same family for the last 11 years, residing in an underground car park in Chelsea, London.
Purchased in 1990, this sparkling little cabriolet has been its owner’s pride and joy ever since and has spent most of its life being admired in her garage. As one would expect the condition of the car is very good and appears untouched. It’s accompanied by a history file which includes its UK V5C and bills for recent work carried out by her local specialists. With just 11,000 miles from new this wonderful XR3i is ready for its next adventure.
