Faults:

Absolutely nothing, it has been very reliable.

General Comments:

This car is very quick for its engine size giving plenty of torque. Its sprightly performance makes sure it holds it own against newer bigger hatch-backs, not to mention the standard extras you got with the 1990 model like, electric windows, mirrors, front spotlights, sunroof, adjustable speed wipers & heated mirrors. A list that really puts a lot of modern cars to shame.

Despite the fact the Mk4 Escort is getting on a bit now, the XR3i model still turns heads with its distinctive, aggressive sporty looks that really make it stand out from other models.

If you can look past the modern perception of this car being a 'boy racer mobile or hairdressers car' and cope with the high insurance cost, what you will find is a real bargain both in terms of performance, looks & reliability.

If you're looking for a nostalgia trip to the eighties, just jump in an XR3i, put a simple minds tape in and off you go! You'd be quite surprised at how many heads turn!

Faults:

The Wheel Arches had corroded slightly at the back of the car.

The passenger side door had rusted on the rim at the bottom of the door.

The underbody needed re-sealing due to damp.

The Tracking needed re-aligning due to a past accident.

The Valve oil seals needed replacing at 93,000 miles.

The area around the Fuse box had corroded badly.

General Comments:

The car handles almost perfectly and is very responsive.

It Accelerates like a Cosworth.

The seats are factory bucket seats and are probably the most comfortable I have sat in.

The driving position is lower than expected.

Faults:

Nothing.

I have done 13,000 miles in a year and I have had no problems with the car.

Usual wear and tear and rust starting to appear at bottom of the driver's door.

Clutch occasionally makes a loud clicking noise.

Manual choke is a pain, but more reliable than the automatic one.

General Comments:

As this Escort is the old style model it is far from modern, but inside it does not feel too dated.

I do not like the two tone paint-work and red bumper inserts, and my previous Escort L looked classier.

The 1.4 engine is rough, noisy and a bit sluggish, but once you build up some speed it cruises at 70-75mph comfortably.

The steering does not feel very sporty compared to my other car (Ford Focus), but it is pleasant enough to drive.

Unfortunately it looks as if rust will take this Escort, but as a bargain banger run-around you won't get much better.

Faults:

Bodywork, electrics, brakes, cold start valve, continuous adjustments to tracking, shreds front tyres and brakes even when driven gently.

General Comments:

Open topped versions gave this car some glamour but I have found it to be a straight line rocket, fantastic at traffic lights but wobbles round corners with less security than a lost wallet. On a racetrack this would be OK but real roads have real bumps and this car is too unsettled at speed.

Fun for posing round town but don't try and keep up with a real performance car on the open road!

Faults:

New carburettor needed at 112,000 and new clutch needed at 118,000 miles.

General Comments:

An extremely durable, reliable and reasonably solid runabout that can be maintained on a budget.

Faults:

Battery, worn valve stem oil seals.

General Comments:

Great little car - add a K&N induction kit, Magnex exhaust system, powervalve, cam, gas flowed head, Koni suspension and you're on to a flyer as well as an empty wallet!

Uprate the discs by using RST S2 callipers and uprated pads and discs - you will need 15" wheels for this!

Faults:

Nothing major at all at about 60k other than exhaust and battery, which are to be expected.

New shocks are also needed soon. Lockable petrol cap seized and a couple of niggling lighting faults are about all.

General Comments:

Does not like being left out in the wet, but provided it is garaged it is a very good and reliable second car, ride in back is not great especially on the motorway where it drums. The 1.6 means it is quite a lively little car.

Faults:

Replaced battery, exhaust, tyres, discs, pads over 4 year period.

Throttle linkage broke.

Brake balance at recent MOT.

General Comments:

Reliable and cheap transport.

Faults:

Leaks in boot hatch (the water collects in spare wheel area).