The Supersport was launched in July 1980 and was based on the 1.3S. It offered various extras from Ford's Series-X accessories catalogue as standard, including 4-spoke RS Alloys, grey or red Carla trim, a body-kit, side-decals and Carello front spotlights for only £4564.09; a bargain. It was only available in Sunburst Red, Black, Diamond White or Strato Silver and 3000 were produced and very few survive. The example modelled, unusually, didn't feature the 'climate pack' that most Superports had, meaning it lacked headlamp-washers, opening quarterlights or tinted glass. It was purchased locally in Surrey in June 1993 by its seventh and current owner, XR Owners Club member Lee Martin, and was his first car.
For £550 Lee acquired a rough but legal Supersport which, after a year's use, entered a six month restoration when an engine knock appeared while Lee's Dad, Paul Martin, was driving it. Paul carried out the work with Lee helping when possible. The restoration started by removing the engine and taking it to a specialist in Whitton, London, for rebuilding. Neighbour Fred Dodd, a retired aviation and automotive engineer, then did the extensive welding needed on the bodyshell before painting it with 8-coats of factory Sunburst Red which, although done in his home garage, still looks good today. The engine was then reinstalled and fitted with a Janspeed exhaust, while the suspension was rebuilt using AVO adjustable springs and dampers plus uprated brakes.
- Engine: 1298cc OHV IL4
- Power: 66bhp@5600rpm
- Torque: 68lb.ft@3250rpm
- Maximum speed: 94mph
- 0-60mph: 13.7secs
Ford Motor Company Trademarks and Trade Dress used under license to Hornby Hobbies. Manufactured by Hornby Hobbies Ltd.