As seen on TV! #4

Back when there was no Top Gear, no YouTube, any car that appeared on TV for more than a few seconds was a talking point. We remember several models, with different “caches”.

Ford Escort Mk III Cabriolet 1983-1989

Why this model?
In addition to cars, there is only one other theme that can capture the attention of an enthusiast in a television series: a sexy protagonist capable of getting away with a fight scene and, why not, a latent and never consummated romance. These are quite basic methods to capture the viewer's attention, especially if the quality of the plot is not great. That was the case with Dempsey and Makepeace, a police series with everything the others have and also a very, very cute protagonist! Makepeace was an English detective who was lucky to have an American colleague named Dempsey, with a playful and daring style. The prospect of romance between them remained imminent but, for a variety of reasons, it never materialized. To these futile reasons for interest, we had to add the car chases and the two cars of the protagonist duo. Dempsey drove a beautiful Mercedes SL R107, while Makepeace was faithful to the Ford Escort Cabriolet, first a gray 1.6i MkIII and later a white XR3i.

What to look for

Compact sports cars aren't what they used to be and, nowadays, a GTI isn't worthy of the name if it doesn't have 200 hp. In the 80s, the Golf GTI and Escort XR3 were exciting with less than 100 hp but, to be able to enjoy one today, it's best to choose the more powerful version. There are few differences between the MkIII and MkVI, but it is preferable to opt for the first version, which in addition to being prettier is also historically more interesting, as it marks the Escort's change from classic transmission to traction. As a classic, it may not have the appeal of the MkII, but with the stylistic touches of the XR3 and the beautiful original trefoil-shaped wheels or the even more unusual white wheels with round holes, the Escort is an interesting “souvenir” from the 80s. , like a Sanjo, or a Walkman. In the Cabriolet version, some of the agility of the closed model is lost, despite the roll bar maintaining rigidity at acceptable levels. Since the XR3 will never be as exhilarating a driving experience as a Golf GTI or a Peugeot 205, perhaps you'll benefit from the convertible option. Especially if, like actress Glynis Barber, you have a pretty face to show the world.

What is it for
It's an option almost as interesting as the ubiquitous Golf GLI, the most predictable classic compact convertible ever. Relatively pleasant to drive and comfortable enough for four, it is an excellent bet for those looking for a cheap convertible for family outings.

Profile of the “actor”
The Escort MkIII was fashionable in its time, but today it is always relegated to the background compared to its older brothers. It's kind of like Casey Affleck, Ben Affleck's forgotten younger brother.

Alternative
If you appreciate Fords from the 80s, the Dempsey and Makepeace series has two more valid suggestions: the squad leader drove a huge Ford Granada MkII and there was an aggressive and threatening villain who drove a beautiful Ford Capri MkIII 2.8i. Sometimes it's better to choose the dark side...

Engine: 4 cyl. in line; front transverse position; overhead camshaft; 15977cc;
Injection ; 101 hp at 6000 rpm; Transmission: front; 5 speed. Man.;
Brakes: front, disc; behind, drum. With brake servo;
Chassis: 2-door, 4-seater steel monoblock;
Length: 3970mm; Wheelbase: 2505mm; Weight: 980kg;
Maximum Speed: 182km/h

Use: 3
Maintenance: 4
Reliability: 4
Valuation: 1