The hot-hatch craze was born with the Golf GTi, but Ford quickly established itself in this market niche with its XR and RS. The XR3 was the ‘British’ oval’s first response to the acclaimed Volkswagen and had significant commercial success in the 80s.

It didn't have the explosive power of its younger brother - the RS Turbo - nor the racing pedigree of the Sierra Cosworth, but the XR3 is a respectable sports car and offered young drivers the look and feel of competition. With alloy wheels, a large rear wing, auxiliary headlights and sports seats, the little Ford looked ready for the World Rally Championship.

The Xr3 combined a firm chassis, with independent suspension and a 1600cc engine with Weber carburetor delivering 96 HP. Enough power to reach almost 190 km/h!

This XR3, painted in the appealing Sunburst Red color, is from 1981, has 126 000 km and has recently undergone careful mechanical intervention. The timing belt has been changed and the peppy 1.6 roars with enthusiasm! The XR3 Mk3 was only produced for two years, which makes it a rare car both in Portugal and in the rest of Europe, therefeore it is certificatied by the Automobile Club of Portugal and is an excellent entry into the world of classic cars.