FORD ESCORT CABRIOLET (1983-1998)
The convertible Escort and Golf of the 1980s share a certain visual aesthetic, and for very good reason – German coachbuilder Karmann, was responsible for turning both from tin-top to drop-top in much the same way, reinforcing their shells and fitting a prominent roll hoop to both offerings. The Escort Cabriolet joined Ford’s range in 1983 at the same time as a five-door estate, and like the Golf, has long offered a clever route into hot hatch ownership – albeit without the hatchback, or indeed a steel roof.
The front-wheel drive Mk3 Escort had a tricky task on its hands in following the popular rear-wheel drive Mk1 and Mk2, but it soon accelerated to the top of Britain’s sales charts and became a best-seller. The Mk3 Cabriolet was offered with 1.3- and 1.6-litre CVH engines, with trim levels including a rare base
