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Curated Auction

1990 Ford Escort XR3i

At a Glance

16 Years Current Ownership | Sensible Miles with Previous MOTs | Large History File

  • Mileage~75,792 on clock
  • TransmissionManual
  • Engine1.6-Litre
  • LocationHigham Ferrers, North Northamptonshire

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

CURATED AUCTION

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HRS
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CURRENT BID£4,200
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AUCTION LIVE

ENDS IN: 56 Days 12 Hr 51 Min 51 Sec

CURRENT BID

£4,200

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Video #2

Introduction

Ashley Dawson
Professional Consigner

Few cars capture the spirit of Ford's performance heritage quite like the Escort XR3i.

A true icon of the fast Ford era, this 1990 Ford Escort XR3i presents an increasingly rare opportunity to acquire a cherished and well-maintained example of one of Britain's most recognisable hot hatches. Finished in black with period-correct styling enhancements and a handful of carefully chosen upgrades, this XR3i has been enjoyed and maintained by its current owner for the past 16 years.

Retaining the engaging analogue driving experience that modern cars simply cannot replicate, this Escort combines lightweight handling, direct steering and classic Ford character with an ownership story rooted in family history and enthusiast care.

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

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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.

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.

Video #2

Meet the owner

I've owned this XR3i for the last 16 years - it was my first car and has been part of the family for a significant part of my life.

Pete's connection to this XR3i runs far deeper than simple ownership. Having owned the car for the past 16 years, it has been a constant presence throughout his adult life and remains closely tied to his family's long-standing passion for Ford vehicles.

Growing up in a Ford household, with his father spending more than 35 years working for the company, Pete developed an appreciation for the marque from an early age. Inspired by memories of riding in his father's Mk2 RS2000, he eventually purchased this XR3i as his first car with the help of both his father and grandfather. Those memories have made the Escort much more than just a classic Ford, helping explain why it has remained in his care for so long.

Pete's decision to sell comes purely as a result of changing priorities rather than any fault with the car itself. Having owned and enjoyed the XR3i for 16 years, he now finds himself driving it less frequently than he once did and is looking for another weekend car.

Unfortunately, garage space means he cannot justify keeping both, and he feels the Escort deserves to be driven and enjoyed rather than spending increasing amounts of time tucked away. Given the sentimental connection he has with the car and its ties to both his father and grandfather, it is a decision that has not been made lightly.

Pete will be happy to answer any questions in the comments section below.

Pete
Vehicle Owner

Ask Questions

CONTACT OWNER
EXTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Exterior

The XR3i remains one of the most recognisable sporting Escorts of its era, and this example presents particularly well throughout.

Wheels and Tyres

The car sits on attractive 15-inch RS seven-spoke Softline alloy wheels, which suit the Escort perfectly and give it a purposeful stance.

They are fitted with quality Bridgestone Turanza tyres and present well, complementing the car's period-correct appearance.

Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old.

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Bodywork

The bodywork appears straight, with the Escort's distinctive flared arches, rear spoiler and sporting profile all well preserved.

RS side skirts have been fitted, enhancing the car's visual presence while remaining sympathetic to its fast Ford roots.

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

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Paint

Finished in black, the paintwork retains a deep shine and suits the XR3i's sharp lines particularly well. The car presents attractively overall and continues to draw attention wherever it goes.

There are age related marks but overall still solid paintwork.

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 hi-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

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Glass and Trim

The exterior trim, lighting and brightwork all present well for a car of this age.

The Ford Badges are looking a little worn and mis-coloured but they look to be original.

Please view the photos and video below to review the condition of the glass and trim for yourself.

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INTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Interior

Inside, the XR3i offers a wonderfully nostalgic driving environment that immediately transports you back to the golden era of performance Fords.

Seats and Carpets

The interior benefits from a pair of RS Recaro front seats, providing excellent support and enhancing the sporting feel of the cabin. The upholstery presents well, while the carpets and interior trim maintain a tidy appearance throughout.

Please take a look at the photos and video below to decide on the condition of the seats and carpets for yourself.

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Dashboard

The dashboard remains pleasingly original, retaining the classic Escort layout and switchgear. The factory-style radio remains in place, contributing to the authentic period feel of the cabin.

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Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

A desirable RS Cosworth three-spoke steering wheel has been fitted and feels perfectly suited to the car.

Combined with the manual gear lever and low-slung seating position, it creates a wonderfully engaging driving environment.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO
Video #2

Mechanics

Maintained by an enthusiast owner and mechanical engineer, this XR3i has benefitted from regular servicing and ongoing care throughout long-term ownership.

Engine and Gearbox

Power comes from the fuel-injected Ford CVH engine, which starts readily and delivers the eager character that helped make the XR3i such a success.

The manual gearbox operates as intended, providing the direct and involving experience expected from a classic hot hatch.

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Suspension and Brakes

The car benefits from drilled and grooved front brake discs paired with Ferodo DS2500 brake pads, providing strong and confidence-inspiring stopping power.

The suspension retains the lightweight, agile character that makes these Escorts so enjoyable to drive.

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The Drive

Pete describes the XR3i as feeling completely different to modern cars. The low driving position, lack of power steering and lightweight construction create an experience that feels direct, mechanical and connected.

He compares the handling to a go-kart, with the car offering a level of feedback and involvement rarely found in contemporary vehicles.

It's also a car that attracts attention everywhere it goes, regularly sparking conversations at fuel stations, country pubs and classic car events.

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Electrics and Other

The car is fitted with a Sigma immobiliser and alarm system for additional security.

All major electrical functions operate as expected.

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Video #2

History and Paperwork

Few classics can offer an ownership story as personal and genuine as this XR3i.

Having been owned by Pete for the past 16 years, this Escort has remained in the hands of a dedicated enthusiast who has maintained the car himself throughout much of that time. As a mechanical engineer and lifelong Ford enthusiast, he has taken pride in caring for the car and preserving its character. The sale is prompted not by necessity but by a desire for a new automotive adventure, and unfortunately lacking the space to keep both.

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, and 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 on 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 bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
05/05/2026 MOT 75,787
29/04/2025 Owner Service 75,512
25/04/2025 MOT 75,512
29/04/2024 MOT 75,225
28/04/2023 MOT 74,976
21/04/2022 MOT 74,615
29/04/2021 MOT 74,553
05/07/2019 MOT 73,909
09/07/2018 MOT 72,994
31/05/2017 MOT 72,367
31/05/2017 Service 72,367
03/09/2014 MOT 71,252
05/06/2013 MOT 69,931
16/05/2012 Owner Service 69,724
15/05/2012 MOT 69,724
25/10/2010 MOT 62,316
20/10/201 Owner Service 62,319
12/10/2009 MOT 60,668
15/10/2008 MOT 60,277
09/10/2007 MOT 60,025
07/10/2006 MOT 59,646
06/10/2005 MOT 58,724
02/10/2004 MOT 55,966
27/09/2003 MOT 51,711
25/10/2002 Service & MOT 48,834
26/10/2001 MOT 45,233
25/10/2001 Service 45,232
25/10/2001 Service 41,751
25/10/2000 MOT 41,749
05/11/1999 MOT 37,796
26/06/1999 Service 36,217
20/11/1998 MOT 34,047
04/07/1998 Service 3,999 (Inaccurate Reading)
01/11/1997 MOT 30,679
24/05/1997 Service -
09/11/1996 MOT 26,480
06/03/1996 Service 23,331
03/11/1995 MOT 21,872
27/10/1995 Service -
28/10/1994 MOT 17,407
13/05/1994 Service -
26/11/1993 MOT 15,940
16/08/1993 Service 15,000
13/07/1991 Service 4,210
16/02/1991 Service 1,120
VIEW ALL
Key Details
  • Model XR3i
  • Transmission Manual
  • Reg. Date 30/11/1990
  • CC 1597
  • Mileage ~75,792 on clock
  • Colour Black
  • Interior Colour Grey
  • Interior Trim Cloth
  • Chassis # SFABXXBBABLM71507
  • Engine # LM71507
  • MOT Yes Exp: 04/05/2027
  • HPi Clear Yes - All Clear
  • Former Keepers 2
  • Tyre Brand Bridgestone
  • LHD or RHD RHD
  • Visited Yes
  • Owned ~16 Years
  • Key Feature Ownership
  • Vehicle Registration H75 4EGV
  • Driver’s Side Right
  • Fuel Type Petrol
  • Body Type Hatchback
  • Auction ID 3762
VIEW ALL
VIEW ALL
Video #2

All Images

Exterior

Interior

Mechanics

History and Paperwork

All Videos



Vehicle Location

Higham Ferrers, North Northamptonshire

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    Auction Bidding

    Live Bidding
    Current Bid £4,200
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    Countdown Timer
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    Auction Ends Thu 9th Jul at 8.00pm
    Bidding History
    Previous Bids  3
    £4,200 bid by Lashie30.06.26 @ 17:06:45
    £4,000 bid by JNisbet25.06.26 @ 11:23:50
    £3,000 bid by Taffytoon5824.06.26 @ 20:50:43
    SEE MORE BIDS SEE MORE BIDS
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    Ask Owner
    Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.
    4 Comments
    Jensoncookie
    Jensoncookie
    1 day ago

    Hello Pete , seriously interested mate is there a buy now price in mind

    ColinB
    ColinB
    Admin
      Jensoncookie
    1 day ago

    Hi,

    There is no buy it now price, the auction needs to run its course.

    Thanks,
    Colin.

    Aidoelec
    Aidoelec
    1 day ago

    Hi Pete,
    Has there been damage to the drivers side rear quarter/arch? In the video it looks like the sideskirt may have been repaired and some filler in the rear arch!?

    PeterXR3i
    PeterXR3i
    Seller
      Aidoelec
    1 day ago

    Hi, I carried out a rust repair on the drivers side rear arch about 5 years ago. I added a bit of filler to make up for the metal that was ground out, there wasn’t enough removed to justify welding in new metal though I did acquire a spare rear arch in case – I can include this in the sale for future repairs if any are needed.

    The side skirt on the same side could do with having the paint touched up to make it looks better. The paint was damaged when a local garage welded the end of the sill a few years back – they pulled the side skirt away to do the welding as they couldn’t easily remove the whole skirt and in doing so the paint on the side skirt cracked where it bent a little. I repaired the paint myself but it was very difficult to get the paint perfectly flat there I found, so it would probably be best to strip all the paint off that skirt and respray it, its something I considered doing but never got around to in the end.

    MORE COMMENTS MORE COMMENTS

    Insurance Quote


    Average annual insurance premium for a XR3i like this is £158 via our trusted partner ClassicLine.
    GET AN INSURANCE QUOTEAnd get 10% off when you mention us.

    *Quote is based on a garaged vehicle in CV32 5QY (Leamington Spa), travelling 3,000 miles per year, 1 driver who is 45 years of age and is free on accidents and convictions – valid Summer 2026.

    Delivery Calculator


    Vehicle Location

    Higham Ferrers, North Northamptonshire

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