The 1981 Ford Escort XR3 restoration by Tolman is a standout example of how passion, patience, and precision can bring a modern classic back to its prime. While Tolman is already known for its acclaimed restomods, this XR3 rebuild sets a new benchmark in accuracy and attention to detail.
Restoring a Modern Classic Icon
Though produced in greater numbers than earlier classics, reviving a 1980s icon like the XR3 presents its own unique set of challenges. Tolman’s goal was clear: return this Ford Escort XR3 to a condition better than new. As demand grows for OEM-spec restorations of 1980s and 1990s vehicles, this project signals Tolman’s intent to lead in this emerging space.
Fast Ford Heritage, Reborn
First sold in 1980, the XR3 was Ford’s answer to the Golf GTI. With a 1600cc CVH engine and sporty cosmetic upgrades, it quickly became a best-selling hot hatch. The XR3 stood out not just for performance, but also for offering accessible style and spirit, a trait that defined generations of ‘Fast Fords’ up to the Fiesta ST.
A Rare Survivor
Despite over 11,000 XR3s sold in the UK during its first year, fewer than 200 carburetted examples are believed to survive. Rust, theft, crashes, and RS Turbo conversions took their toll. When Tolman received this matching-numbers car as an incomplete project, the goal was clear: build one of the world’s finest XR3s.
Rebuilding Piece by Piece
Tolman began by auditing the bare shell and two pallets containing more than 1,000 parts. With many bolts unlabeled, the team built an OEM-style bill of materials to guide the process. The car received fresh metalwork and was repainted in its original Sunburst Red finish. Tolman even improved the shut lines to levels not seen at the Halewood factory.
Finding What Time Forgot
Locating parts proved difficult due to constant mid-production changes. Some came from overseas, including a NOS driveshaft from Germany. Others were created in-house, like a second driveshaft, which Tolman designed and produced locally. NOS seat trim emerged just in time on eBay, saving the team from recreating the fabric pattern from scratch.
Engineered for Longevity and Accuracy
Beyond aesthetics, Tolman introduced modern processes like additive manufacturing to produce hidden clips and smart repairs for plastics. Higher-grade materials were used for items like CNC-formed brake lines and a stainless exhaust. The original etched windows were preserved and polished, while even tiny details, such as dual-color heater decals, were reverse engineered.
Showroom-Level Interior
Inside, Tolman refinished the Recaro-style seats in black with vivid blue accents. Instrument needles were airbrushed to restore their bright orange hue, and every surface was restored to period-correct condition. The final touch? 185/60 R14 Michelin Youngtimer tires fitted to the original ‘Clover Leaf’ alloy wheels.
Accessories from the 1980s
To complete the experience, Tolman added period-correct items such as a NOS Feu Vert air freshener, vintage Embassy cigarettes, and 1980s race programs. These small details reflect the team’s dedication not just to the car, but to recreating the full atmosphere of its era.
Summary
This 1981 Ford Escort XR3 restoration isn’t just about replacing parts, it’s a showcase of craftsmanship and love for classic motoring. With concours events on the horizon, the owner now has one of the finest XR3s on the planet, and Tolman has set a new standard for modern classic restorations.
Disclaimer: Vehicle details and specifications are based on provided sources and restoration information. Always confirm before purchase or appraisal.
Source: Tolman Motorsport
“We truly enjoy finding ways to improve modern classics through our Tolman Edition programme,” says founder Chris Tolman. “We have to be more innovative, drawing on different networks and ways to find the harder to find parts and reproducing or restoring the ones you simply can’t buy. But it’s really satisfying to restore a car to factory specification, hunting down the near-impossible-to find parts and ensuring it looks like we remember them.”
The owner now intends to take the Escort to a number of car events and concours in 2024.
