Better than new
The Ford Escort XR3 is somewhat of an icon when it comes to relatively affordable sportiness. The British Tolman certainly thinks so. That’s why it breathes new life into him.
Ford has a rich history when it comes to sporty variants of ordinary models. Consider, for example, the crazy Focus RSs that have appeared over the years, but also the ST version with the wonderful 2.5 five-cylinder. Long ago, Ford also unleashed its sporting department on the Escort, often with great consequences. The pinnacle was the Escort RS Cosworth, but they were already able to do something in the 1980s. This is how the sporting story of the Escort Mk3 began with the XR3. There are not many left, but at least one is now breathing new life into the British Tolman.
We know Tolman from, among other things, meticulously restored and improved Peugeots 205 GTI, so you can give that company a try. hot hatch from the 80’s. To start with, the car has been completely restored and, according to Tolman, that was a very complicated job due to the extremely limited availability of certain parts. You might not think so with a common model like the Escort, but certain things were virtually impossible to find. For example, Tolman had to copy a drive shaft himself, but for the other side there was one that the British had to get from Germany. Original sticker work for the XR3 also turned out to be a lengthy search. Just when Tolman was about to start copying certain stickers, another roll turned up under a layer of dust when an eBay seller was clearing out.
Tolman says he has done everything he can to make the car as original as possible, but some things have remained slightly less original. Of course, mainly with a view to improvement. For example, better brake lines and a completely new stainless steel exhaust system have been installed. In the interior, some other materials have also been used here and there for reproduction parts, so that it can all last a little longer. Still, it’s like going back in time and getting into a virtually new Escort XR3. For example, there is even a cigarette pack and an air freshener from that time waiting for you in the interior. Are you starting to salivate yet? Unfortunately, the Ford Escort XR3 is not for sale, it is going back to the owner. This could just be the start of more Escort restorations by Tolman.
– Thanks for information from Autoweek.nl