In Brief:

• A smart example of the much-loved Ford Fiesta XR2
• Finished in a lovely period appropriate grey with red accents
• Strong accompanying history file
• Well maintained and increasingly scarce 1980s Ford performance model
• Owned for 12 years by the wife of a Ford mechanic

Auctioneer's Notes:

A smart example of Ford’s much-loved second-generation Fiesta XR2, combining compact dimensions, lively performance and unmistakable 1980s hot-hatch styling. Although described on documentation as a saloon, the XR2 is more accurately characterised as a three-door hatchback, with its distinctive body kit, alloy wheels and sporting detailing helping to make it one of the most recognisable performance Fiestas of its era.

The accompanying history file is particularly pleasing, containing documentation dating back to 1989 and offering useful insight into the care and maintenance received throughout the car’s life. The current keeper reports that, when purchased in 2023, the XR2 drove beautifully from Cornwall to Dorset and that, despite limited use since, it has “never missed a beat”.

Importantly, discrepancies within the recorded mileage mean that the odometer reading should not be regarded as warranted.

Maintenance & Condition:

The file contains a useful collection of handwritten maintenance notes recording the replacement of consumables and service items including oil, brake discs and pads, belts and other sundries, with dates and mileages noted where applicable.

Of particular note, the cambelt, tensioner and water pump were replaced in 2022, together with an engine oil and filter change, at which point the mileage was recorded as 06,962. Supporting invoices also document work to the braking system, replacement of the rear exhaust silencer/back box and tailpipe, an ignition coil, front wing replacement, and further belt and filter changes.

The current keeper advises that the previous keeper owned the XR2 for approximately 12 years until 2023. Her husband was reportedly a Ford mechanic who carried out a considerable amount of work on the car in his own garage and also kept a donor vehicle as a source of genuine Ford parts. The car was also lowered during this period of ownership.

Invoices within the file date back to 1989 and collectively demonstrate regular expenditure and ongoing attention over the years.

History:

The history file includes the original Owner's Handbook, sound system information booklet and service record, the latter carrying eight service stamps. A selection of recent MOT certificates and records is also present.

Further period material includes old tax discs complete with a magnetic tax disc holder, together with a set of unused red tailgate decal stickers.

According to the current keeper, the previous owner retained the vehicle for approximately 12 years before selling it in 2023, when she acquired a new car. He advises that she was reluctant to part with the XR2, reflecting the length of time it had remained with the family.

The recorded mileage changes between the 2015 and 2016 MOT entries, during the previous keeper’s period of ownership, while there is also a notable gap in the accompanying paperwork between early 2015 and 2022. Accordingly, despite the considerable supporting history, the displayed mileage is not to be taken as genuine or warranted.

The current keeper acquired the car in 2023 and reports comparatively limited use during his ownership.

The Model:

Introduced as the sporting flagship of the Mk2 Fiesta range, the Ford Fiesta XR2 became one of the defining affordable hot hatchbacks of the 1980s. Powered by Ford’s 1.6-litre CVH four-cylinder petrol engine and coupled to a five-speed manual gearbox, it offered around 90-96bhp in a car weighing approximately 840kg.

Performance was suitably lively, with 0-60mph achievable in around nine seconds and a top speed in the region of 110mph. More than outright figures, however, it was the XR2’s light weight, responsive handling and accessible performance that earned it such a loyal following.

Externally, its flared wheelarch extensions, sporting bumpers, auxiliary front lamps and characteristic alloy wheels gave the XR2 a purposeful appearance, while the straightforward cabin and period sports trim completed the package.

Sale Insight:

Mk2 Fiesta XR2s have become increasingly sought after as surviving examples of an era when lightweight, uncomplicated hot hatchbacks offered considerable performance and character without unnecessary complexity.

This example benefits from a particularly engaging history, including invoices dating back to 1989, handwritten maintenance records, original literature and period accessories. Its previous long-term ownership is also noteworthy, with the current keeper reporting that much of the maintenance during that period was undertaken by a Ford mechanic using a donor car as a source of genuine components.

While the mileage cannot be warranted, the breadth of accompanying paperwork, long-term previous ownership and positive report from the current keeper combine to make this an appealing proposition for the enthusiast seeking an increasingly scarce 1980s Ford performance model.

Estimate:
£7,000 - £8,000