It’s the cult classic that’s easy to live with, and our in-depth guide reveals all you need to know. ESCORT XR3i MK4

While the Mk4 Escort XR3i sought to improve on the Mk3 version, the verdict was definitely out when Ford pulled the wraps off its latest fast Ford in March 1986.

Whether drivers thought it was a step backwards or a leap forwards depended on how hardcore they liked their sporty Escort experience.

Revised suspension, the availability of anti-lock brakes and a stronger bodyshell heightened refinement and safety, but it came at a price. Thanks to a 10 mm higher ride height and the comfortenhancing, softer suspension settings, the new XR didn’t handle as sharp as its predecessor and, being 100 lbs heavier, it was also marginally slower on the 0-60 mph sprint.

On the upside, and despite the Mk4’s extra weight and the

Bosch fuel-injected 1597cc CVH engine carried over unchanged from the Mk3, top speed crept up to 118 mph and fuel economy also improved.

Behind the gains in top end and efficiency was the Mk4’s more aerodynamic styling, which undeniably was more contemporary than that of the MK3 and, in addition to revised, smoother bodywork, consisted of mild, yet effective, spoilers. General consensus was that the Mk4 was more civilised than the Mk3 version and a Granada-style dashboard contributed to the refined feel, although luxuries were few and far between. At launch, the likes of central locking, electric windows, sunroof, electric windows and even the popular 6x14 inch five-spoke ‘Dogleg’ alloys were on the options list.

Another notable extra was the Lucas and Girling-developed SCS (Stop Control System) that utilised a Kevlar belt between the driveshaft and electronic modulator to apply pressure to the front brake callipers. The ABS system didn’t come cheap though, adding £315 to the list price.

The lack of standard equipment and less dynamic drive did little to dent the XR’s popularity though, while running changes such as Ford’s own EFi-badged EEC-IV electronic fuel injection, Zolda trim and greater standard equipment, maintained its popularity with hot hatch buyers.

Thirty years after it was replaced by the Mk5 version, the Mk4 XR3i is now recognised as a bona fide classic Ford. It might not be the most exciting sporting Escort, but it’s certainly one of the most practical and, at the present time, certainly one of the most affordable.

“THE MK4 XR3I’s SMOOTHER BODYWORK GAINED MORE EFFECTIVE SPOILERS” “LUCAS GIRLING ABS WAS A £315 OPTION”