The Escort XR3i - worth buying these days?

[GTO Scott]

I'm in need of a decent cheap motor that'll do around 30mpg for everyday driving, and I keep coming back to the idea of a late 80's or early 90's hot hatch.

I've always liked the Mk.4 XR3i and now seems like an ideal time to buy. Should I consider any other fast Fords or is a '3i the best of a sub £1k bunch?

Cheers, Scott.

[M-Ster]

Im biased would go for an XR2i as you get some nice extras on it fog lights body kit etc plus spares are cheap as chips and think you would only make on it if you look after it.

For a grand you would get a clean one but look around there are constantly coming up on the likes of ebay but do your research as there are some poo ones about aswell.

hope this helps

[mr_fibuli]

How about an early Mk4 RS2000? Always thought they looked smart at the time with the power bulges on the bonnet. Also one of the first Mk4s I remember seeing any form of positive reviews for.

I've also got a soft spot for the 309GTI, and also hankered after a Renault 19 16v for a while...

[stevenr]

mr_fibuli said:

How about an early Mk5 RS2000? Always thought they looked smart at the time with the power bulges on the bonnet. Also one of the first Mk5s I remember seeing any form of positive reviews for.

I've also got a soft spot for the 309GTI, and also hankered after a Renault 19 16v for a while...

EFA

[M-Ster]

werent the rs2000 on the mk5 escorts??

[Nolar Dog]

As a daily I'd go for an XR4x4 if you can justify/afford the fuel usage.

Or if not, a late EFi XR3i should be a good bet.
Can you not strect a bit further (money wise) and get a Puma?

[stevenr]

My old one


Replaced it with this one though

[GTO Scott]

I have been considering the Mk.5 RS2000's too - but I reckon the clean straight lines of the Mk.4 (especially in dark grey) win out on the style front. I'd have a Mk.5 though, as long as it isn't red or black. Otherwise an Escort GTi sounds like a good bit of fun, even if the styling is a bit bland.

As for a Puma, they're a bit small for me unfortunately, which is a shame is they are a cracking car to drive and so far aren't as prone to rot.