Lot details
Registration No: VWE 26Y
Chassis No: VS6BXXWPFBDD48213
Mot Expiry: Oct 2007

Eagerly anticipated as Ford's entry into the burgeoning 'supermini' market created by the Fiat 127 and Renault 5, the front-wheel drive Fiesta's late arrival to the UK in February 1977 (the European launch had been summer 1976) meant that Ford were able to produce a competent package which either matched or surpassed its rivals in nearly every area. With a design emphasis on low running costs to appease Ford's strong fleet buyer base, the Fiesta was an immediate pan-European success. Launched with 950cc or 1100 cc engines, a 1300cc was added in September 1977 for the sporting motorist. However, buyers eagerly anticipated a proper 'hot' version and after experiments rallying a 1600cc Fiesta in 1979/80 (which unfortunately came to very little), the XR2 was launched in late 1981. Powered by the 84bhp 1598cc engine with fully recalibrated suspension and an aggressive body restyling (including 'pepperpot' alloys a la Capri 2.8 Injection), the XR2 was a cut above most sporting superminis such as the indecently fast Renault 5 Gordini and soon to be discontinued Talbot Sunbeam Ti. The original XR2 lasted only two years before the whole Fiesta range was restyled at the end of 1983. A direct successor did not appear until Spring 1984 although in retrospect the 'Mark 2' was not as well developed as its predecessor.

Finished in red with grey cloth upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor - an ex-1960s International Formula 1 & Formula 2 racing driver - as being in "very good" condition with regard to its engine, gearbox, electrical equipment, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres. Though, he considers the interior trim to be "good / original". Entering the current (second) ownership in 1988, 'VWE 26Y' has reportedly been "dry stored for the last decade". The subject of a respray some six years ago, the Ford is said to retain its "original panels except for the two front wings" (while, other work has apparently seen it treated to an extensive engine overhaul). Believed but not warranted to have covered some 85,600 miles from new, this iconic hot hatch is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until October 10th 2007.