"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 is one of three known pre-production press launch cars remaining, which were all registered on the same day, 21st November 1980, prior to launch a week later, making this one of the oldest XR's in the UK. Following the press launch, Ford Motor Company sent this XR3 to Brooklyn Ford of Redditch as their demonstrator. A restoration was commenced in 2016 and she has won two best in class shows since. During this time, circa 1,000 miles has been covered and we are informed the car drives very well. The carburettor 1.6 CVH pre-injection engine performs faultlessly, the handling is stiff and taut, and it reminds you of how the XR legend all began. As with launch cars the specification was always high, this example has electric front windows, tinted glass, upgraded radio cassette player, genuine Ford spot and fog lamps, head restraint pads and a factory sunroof. Wonderful unique features to very early models include a single washer to the bonnet, twin seat belt stalks, extremely rare colour keyed non-locking fuel cap and gloss black finish to the sills. The engine and gearbox were rebuilt using Ford Motorcraft parts with many other parts such as the fuel tank and steering rack were replaced. Finished in Sunburst Red, this XR3 is exceptional, all the gauges and rare roof mounted digital clock operate correctly. Supplied with a V5C registration document and full years MoT test certificate, this iconic 80’s XR3 represents an opportunity to own the earliest example and is a strong investment for the future.
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