The big story
Ford RS prices still overshadow XRs, but one in particular is on the move
XR Models on the Up
With all the long-term brouhaha surrounding the values of RS-badged Fords, many XR models could be seen to be playing second fiddle when it comes to status and value.
But one particular XR model has seen values quietly increasing this year, after some time on the sidelines as the market chased Sierra and Escort Cosworths, and RS Turbo Escorts.
The Fiesta XR2 has seen a serious rise in interest, spurred on by values lagging behind those of the Renault 5 GT Turbo and Peugeot 205 GTi. It may lack the Renault’s ultimate adrenaline rush, but offers involving roadholding, a first-class gearbox, a free-revving engine and reasonable running costs.
At the start of the year, Anglia Car Auctions’ restored and historied 1988 XR2 sold within its £40005000 estimate at £4725. Three months later, Brightwells’ first Modern Classics’ sale of the year saw a 42,000-mile 1987 example show an upswing in interest, pulling in a healthy £8400.
The next Modern Classics sale followed suit with another 1987 model, this time a one-owner, 55,000-miler with 25 service stamps in the book. Buyers tend to prefer more 1980s-evocative black, red, dark greys and silvers than this car’s white, but nevertheless it sold for a strong £7200.
The market has clearly not fallen out of love with the XR2, but it’s clear that only the best cars – not just in terms of condition but also low number of owners and comprehensive service history – will generate strong prices.
Proof of the XR2’s desirability was shown at last month’s Silverstone Auctions’ sale, held at the NEC Classic Motor Show. An earlier, 1983 MkI, it had been through three owners’ hands but had clearly been properly looked-after throughout that time. Flawless body and paint, and an as-new interior were instant draws, as was the excellent service and maintenance history.
Some might have questioned the £15,000-20,000 estimate as being over-optimistic, but the result – £22,500 – was enough to show that Ford’s pint-sized XR model is definitely seeing rekindled interest after years spent in the wings.
While the RS models will continue to draw high-price gasps, there are clearly more accessible performance Fords that lack none of the more expensive cars’ personalities or sporting DNA, and there’s no finer example than the XR2.