With Ford’s performance car lineup notably absent, enthusiasts are turning to specialists. British outfit Tolman is reviving the iconic 1980s Escort XR3i, equipping it with a tuned engine and modernized handling. This stylistic exercise promises to deliver, or even amplify, the driving thrills of yesteryear.
Today, the landscape of sporty cars from Ford is as barren as a gas station parking lot on a Sunday evening. The Fiesta ST, Focus ST, RS—all have bowed out, leaving a gaping void for those who dream of a small, blue oval hot hatch. In this context, the most obvious solution for recapturing the spirit of the past is to look towards specialists who haven’t forgotten the brand’s sporting DNA.
Tolman: The Restomod Wizard
The name Tolman might not ring a bell, yet this British tuner has already made a name for itself in the world of « Restomods. » These projects involve fully restoring classic cars while integrating modern technologies. After working on other models, Tolman is now tackling an icon of the 1980s: the Ford Escort XR3i. Back in its day, it was a direct rival to the VW Golf GTI, though it never quite managed to match the dynamics of its German or French competitors like the Peugeot 205 GTi. Tolman intends to correct that, offering a version that would finally outperform the sporty compacts of its era.
Meticulous Restoration for a Sound Chassis
The project is based on an original XR3i, finished in « Diamond White » with red accents. Like many cars of that generation, time had left deep traces of rust. No less than 1600 hours of work were required to give the body a second youth. Given the rarity of good condition roofs, especially those with the sunroof option, Tolman even had to develop its own tooling to recreate this essential part. The body was then treated with a modern anti-corrosion coating to ensure lasting durability, preventing the monumental effort from deteriorating in the first rain shower.
The CVH Engine Transformed by Zetec Technology
Under the hood, Tolman stays true to the original spirit while injecting a dose of modernity. The 1.6L CVH block, known for its sometimes rough character and maintenance needs, is retained. However, it receives a 16-valve cylinder head from the more modern Zetec family. New pistons, reinforced connecting rods, and a discreet electronic management system, integrated into the original ECUs, complete the build. A custom stainless steel exhaust system ensures better gas evacuation. The result? A 50% increase in power over the original 105 horsepower, reaching a respectable 152 horsepower. Torque climbs to 163 Nm, providing significantly improved dynamism. The transmission remains a five-speed manual gearbox, a guarantee of authentic sensations.
A Chassis Finally Matching Its Ambitions
To make this extra power usable and deliver genuine driving pleasure, Tolman has completely revised the chassis. The damping, often criticized on production models, gives way to a combination of parts from the rare RS 1600i homologation model and modern Bilstein shock absorbers. A specifically developed anti-roll bar for the front axle promises to significantly improve cornering behavior and steering precision. The wheel arches have been widened to accommodate 15-inch alloy wheels, whose design echoes the aesthetic codes of original Ford wheels, even featuring markings from period molds. At the rear, drum brakes are replaced by ventilated discs, while modern Michelin tires ensure optimal grip.
Practical Details for Daily Use
Beyond the purely mechanical aspects, this Tolman version of the Escort XR3i incorporates modern touches that make it more pleasant for daily use. LED headlights offer significantly better illumination than the original optics, a Blaupunkt car radio with DAB reception provides onboard entertainment, and a GPS tracking system coupled with a modern immobilizer protects the vehicle against theft. The interior retains the classic Daytona fabric upholstery, preserving the 1980s atmosphere without sacrificing current comfort and safety standards. A well-thought-out alternative for nostalgic drivers.
The Key Takeaways
- A Myth Resurrected: Tolman breathes new life into the Ford Escort XR3i with a modern approach.
- Enhanced Performance: The 1.6L CVH engine now produces 152 hp thanks to extensive tuning.
- Improved Road Manners: A modernized chassis features quality components and upgraded brakes.
- Preserved Aesthetics: The car retains its iconic 1980s look, with subtle modern touches.
- Exclusivity: Only four examples will be produced, ensuring significant rarity.
- A Project for Enthusiasts: Aimed at those seeking an original and high-performing sports car, far from the beaten path.
Articles liés : Ford Escort
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