1981 Ford Fiesta Supersport |

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1981 Ford Fiesta Supersport

This vehicle has now been sold - click ‘Register Similar’ below to get notified when we consign a similar vehicle.

Sold Price

£11,256

Mileage~44,053 on clock
TransmissionManual
Engine1.3-litre
LocationCleckheaton, West Yorkshire

SOLD

1981 Ford Fiesta Supersport

I WANT ONE

Introduction

Ashley Dawson

Professional Consigner

The Ford Fiesta Supersport stands today as one of the most desirable early performance Fiestas - a model that bridged the gap between humble runabout and hot-hatch icon.

Introduced as a limited-run sporty trim prior to the arrival of the XR2, the Supersport brought bold styling, lively character and unmistakable 1980s attitude to Ford’s celebrated supermini.

With its distinctive graphics, uprated suspension, sports interior and standout road presence, the Supersport became an instant enthusiast favourite. Survivors are now increasingly sought-after, not only for their rarity but also for their pure, analogue driving feel. The unmistakable experience of a lightweight, carb-fed Ford from a golden era of performance motoring.

This particular 1981 example comes to market from almost ~4 years with our vendor, who has cherished the car and enjoyed its retro charm. Finished in its classic Supersport livery with the correct decals, stripes and interior details, the car presents as an honest and characterful example of this now-collectable model. The interior retains its iconic tartan-style seat centres, the body displays the hallmark Supersport styling cues, and the engine bay houses its familiar, straightforward Kent motor.

A rare opportunity to acquire a genuine Supersport, this Fiesta represents an appealing blend of originality, retro flair and classic Ford heritage ready to be enjoyed, lightly improved, or preserved as a charming survivor of early 1980s performance culture.

This listing was written from information supplied by Ashley after meeting Luke the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

After a few years of ownership, I feel it’s time for someone else to enjoy this Supersport the way it deserves.

Luke has been the owner of this rare Ford Fiesta Supersport for the past almost ~4 years, during which time the car has required no major work, just a new battery.

An honest, characterful retro Ford. Luke describes it as a fun, eye-catching classic that always draws attention thanks to its period graphics and unmistakable Supersport charm.

The decision to sell comes down to practicality rather than desire; with the car no longer getting the use it should, Luke feels it’s only right to pass it on to an enthusiast who will properly cherish it, enjoy driving it, and continue its story.

Luke will be happy to answer any questions about the car in the comments section below.

Luke

Vehicle Owner

Luke saved £1,980* when they
sold their Ford with us.

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EXTERIOR VIDEO

Exterior

The Supersport is one of the most recognisable early performance Fords, and this example presents with the classic period-correct details that made the model so sought after.

Wheels and Tyres

The car sits on the correct Supersport alloy wheel; a signature feature of the model - they present well and remain a standout visual element.

The tyres appear in good condition, All Yokohama's with sufficient tread and a spec of 185/60R13 across all four corners, matching the car’s well-kept and honest exterior presentation.

Please take a look at the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior of the Ford and a closer look at the wheels and tyres to make your assessment of their condition.

Bodywork

The bodywork appears straight and true, with good visual panel alignment throughout. No major dents were observed, and the car retains its correct Supersport trim, spoilers, and styling cues.

Door shuts, bonnet and tailgate all look tidy and consistent with a well-preserved example.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our high-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

Finished in 'Strato Silver' with factory Supersport side stripes, the paint presents nicely with a strong overall shine. Expected signs of age are present in places, small blemishes and minor marks but nothing that detracts from the car’s overall appeal. The bold red and black graphics remain vibrant and help the car stand out in true period fashion.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these high-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

Glass and Trim

The glass looks clear and free from major chips or cracks, with light age-related marks as expected.

Exterior trim, including bumpers, seals, and Supersport decals, appear in good order.

The rear bumper has some peeling on the driver side inside edge.

The black plastic elements retain a consistent finish, and the chrome details remain tidy, rounding off a well-preserved and authentic early performance Ford.

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INTERIOR VIDEO

Interior

Inside, the Supersport presents with a charmingly period-correct cabin that captures everything enthusiasts love about early-’80s Fords; simplicity, honesty, and that unmistakable retro character.

Seats and Carpets

The Supersport-specific seats look great, featuring the iconic tartan-style centre cloth paired with black vinyl bolsters. They show well, with no tears or significant wear visible, suggesting the car has been looked after through the years.

The carpets appear to be in tidy, usable condition overall, with only light age-related wear as expected for a car of this era.

The carpet in the passenger footwell has a noticeable tear.

Dashboard

The dashboard presents cleanly, retaining the classic layout and appearing free from any major cracks, damage, or warping. Switchgear, vents, and trim panels all look to be intact and original.

The centre console and stereo area remain aligned and fitting properly, reinforcing the impression of a well-kept example that hasn’t been modified or altered from factory intent.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The original Ford steering wheel presents nicely, showing no excessive wear.

The gear stick and surrounding trim look tidy, with the gaiter, knob, and plastics all in good condition. Both appear functional, solid, and consistent with a car that has been driven sparingly and cared for by its owners.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO

Mechanics

Mechanically simple, lightweight, and true to its roots, this Fiesta Supersport offers the pure analogue driving experience early Fords are celebrated for.

Engine and Gearbox

Powered by the lively Kent engine, the Fiesta starts willingly and settles into a smooth idle. These Supersport models are known for their eager character, and this example continues to deliver that spirited performance.

The gearbox shifts cleanly through all gears, offering the light, mechanical feel typical of early ’80s Fords. No issues were reported with either the engine or transmission.

Luke tells us the car has required no major mechanical work during his three and a half year ownership and has been enjoyed as a reliable, characterful classic.

Suspension and Brakes

The suspension setup feels tidy, predictable and solid providing the nimble, confidence-inspiring handling that makes these small Fords so enjoyable on the road.

Brakes perform as expected for the model, bringing the car to a stop without any noises or problem and offering consistent pedal feel.

The Drive

On the road, the Supersport maintains the charm that made it popular when new. Light steering, responsive throttle, and a playful eagerness that rewards smooth inputs.

It remains a fun, engaging classic that feels rewarding at everyday speeds, exactly what enthusiasts look for in an early hot-hatch predecessor.

Luke reported no issues at the time of the visit.

Electrics and Other

Luke confirmed that all electrics, switches, and controls were in full working order, as far as he was aware, at the time of our visit. Lighting, indicators, gauges, and interior functions operated correctly, presenting no faults or concerns.

Overall, the mechanical and electrical aspects of the car suggest a well-kept Supersport that has remained dependable under current ownership.

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History and Paperwork

This Supersport comes with a strong and interesting history file, reflecting its life both abroad and in the UK. It has clearly been owned by enthusiasts who have cared for it properly and preserved much of its originality, supported by a healthy trail of documentation.

A significant portion of the paperwork relates to the car’s time in France, where it spent many years before being brought to the UK in 2015.

During that period it was a left-hand-drive example, but has since undergone a professional conversion to right-hand drive, with supporting documentation included to verify the work. The conversion presents neatly and correctly inside the cabin, adding to the car’s usability without compromising its originality. The speedometer would have been changed from KPH to MPH so the mileage can't be verified accurately.

Alongside this, the history file contains various invoices, paperwork, and records reflecting general upkeep over the years, helping to paint a reassuring picture of a Supersport that has been properly maintained and thoughtfully preserved.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment of the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bids, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.