FIESTA XR2 MK2

It’s quick, it’s cute, it’s chuckable and, with a little tuning know-how, the Mk2 Fiesta XR2 can also be an absolute blast on any racetrack or B-road. Can you believe this Blue Oval go-kart is 33 years old?

The second-generation XR2 appeared in June 1984, repeating its predecessor’s recipe of chunky styling and oversized engine in a pint-sized package. Instead of the newfangled fuel injection found on sporting Escorts, Ford gave its hot Fiesta the Weber carburettor-fed 1600cc CVH powerplant from the original XR3. Its 96bhp might seem puny by today’s standards but 112mph top speed and sub-nine-second 0- 60mph sprint put it almost on par with Peugeot’s lauded 205GTi. The XR2’s handling was similarly set up, with precise steering, lowered springs and Girling gas dampers.

But it was in the styling stakes where the XR2 stood out, with bulbous plastic spoilers and wheelarch extensions covering meaty 6x13 in wheels; steels were standard but most cars were equipped with pepperpot-style alloys for a few quid more.

The Spanish-built XR sold in the tens of thousands until being discontinued in 1989, with mild changes along the way. The charcoal-coloured cockpit was replaced by pale grey/blue in autumn 1986, and engine output was cut at the same time, with Ford switching to the lean-burn CVH and low- emissions carb.

Initially a tuner’s favourite and highly-successful circuit racer, the XR2 gradually fell out of fashion. But now the sporty Fiesta is back, a forerunner in the current classic hot hatchback upsurge. XR2 prices are rising fast, so pocket a Mk2 before they rocket.

“...chunky styling and oversized engine in a pint-sized package”