British modern-classic specialist Tolman has unveiled a one-off Ford Escort XR3i restomod, reworking the popular 1980s hatchback with a series of mechanical and cosmetic upgrades while retaining its original charm.
The project follows the firm’s Tolman Edition Peugeot 205 GTi programme and was commissioned by a customer who wanted an XR3i that captured the appeal of a car they admired as a teenager but with improved performance, refinement and usability.
According to Tolman, the build took about 1,600 hours to complete. Work began in 2022 after sourcing a standard Escort XR3i finished in Diamond White with Rosso Red trim inserts.
The car underwent a full body restoration to address corrosion, a common issue on the model. One of the more complex tasks involved repairing the rusted sunroof aperture, which required the development of a custom jig and forming tool to recreate the original structure.
Under the bonnet, Tolman retained the Escort’s original 1.6l CVH engine rather than replacing it with a more modern Ford engine. However, the unit received extensive modifications, including a 16-valve Zetec cylinder head, upgraded pistons and connecting rods, a strengthened bottom end and electronic engine management.
The result is a significant increase in performance. Tolman says the engine produces 112kW at the wheels, about 50% more than the standard car, while peak torque rises to 163Nm. A bespoke stainless-steel exhaust system has also been fitted, while power continues to be sent to the front wheels through the original five-speed manual gearbox.
The suspension has been comprehensively revised using components inspired by the Ford RS1600i homologation model, combined with Bilstein dampers and a bespoke front anti-roll bar. Tolman says the upgrades improve steering feel, turn-in response and overall handling without fundamentally altering the car’s character.
A notable visual change comes in the form of custom 15″ alloy wheels. Designed to resemble the original 14″ “dog-leg” wheels fitted to period Escorts, the larger rims allow for a wider choice of modern tyres while creating space for upgraded brakes. These include AP Racing front discs and a rear disc conversion, replacing the original drum brakes. Michelin Pilot Exalto PE4 tyres complete the package.
Other upgrades include LED headlights, stainless-steel brake lines and a modern security system incorporating an alarm, immobiliser and tracker. Inside, the Escort retains period-correct touches such as Daytona cloth upholstery and a heated windscreen but gains a Blaupunkt DAB radio.
Tolman says it has three further one-off customer projects based on different 1980s icons scheduled for 2026, alongside continued production of its Tolman Edition Peugeot 205 GTi builds.
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