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Ford Fiesta XR2 1981 TUNED

ClassicFord
110 hp
Horsepower
820 kg
Weight
FWD
Drivetrain
1981
Year

Ford Fiesta XR2 1981 TUNED (Classic)

The Ford Fiesta XR2 1981 TUNED is a lively, hot-hatch take on Ford’s early-’80s Fiesta platform, turning a lightweight economy car into a playful front-wheel-drive pocket rocket. In tuned form it keeps the simple, mechanical character of the original XR2 while adding enough extra punch to make it a seriously fun machine in the sim.

Key Specs (BoP-dependent, typical sim values)

  • Powertrain: 1.6L naturally aspirated inline-4, transverse front-mounted

  • Total Output: ~110 hp (82 kW)

  • Redline: ~7,000 rpm

  • Transmission: 4-speed manual

  • Weight: ~820 kg

  • Dimensions: ~3,570 mm long × 1,570 mm wide × 1,366 mm tall | Wheelbase ~2,286 mm

  • Tires: Period-style road tires on small steel/alloy wheels

  • Brakes: Front discs, rear drums

  • Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive

In the Simulator Feel

The Fiesta XR2 TUNED is a light, nimble, and entertaining Classic that feels eager to change direction and easy to place on track. It doesn't rely on big power or aero; instead, the fun comes from momentum driving, lively chassis balance, and the challenge of keeping the front tires happy under acceleration and braking. Compared to modern machinery, it feels raw, compact, and refreshingly honest.

Engine & Sound: The 1.6-liter four-cylinder has a busy, mechanical character with a crisp induction note and a hard-edged bark at higher revs. Tuning gives it a stronger midrange and a bit more urgency out of slow corners, but it still rewards keeping the revs up and shifting cleanly rather than lugging the motor.

Handling Characteristics:

  • Cornering: Quick turn-in and strong agility, with a tendency to understeer if you enter too fast or ask too much of the front end.

  • Traction: FWD traction is predictable, but wheelspin can appear if you’re aggressive on corner exit or on colder tires.

  • Braking: Light weight helps stopping distances, though period brakes still need a careful, progressive touch.

  • Top Speed: Modest by modern standards, but the car feels fast because it’s so small, reactive, and mechanically alive.

Driving Style Tip: Carry momentum and be smooth with inputs. The Fiesta XR2 TUNED rewards clean lines, early rotation, and patience on throttle — it’s much quicker when you drive it like a properly balanced hot hatch rather than forcing it.

Livery & Aesthetics: Boxy, charming, and unmistakably early-’80s Ford, the XR2 has classic hot-hatch appeal with simple bodywork, period detailing, and a no-nonsense stance. In tuned form it looks like a street machine that’s just waiting for a backroad blast or a club-level track day.

Whether you're doing hot laps or just enjoying a lightweight classic, the Ford Fiesta XR2 1981 TUNED is a playful throwback that delivers big smiles per lap — small car, big attitude.