Details
The XR3i modelled was based at Darlington Police Station from 1983 under the call sign M10D, or more usually 'Mike 10'. It was used by 'Traffic' and was one of two XR3is employed by the Constabulary in this role during that period with the other, A277 BJR, being based at Peterlee; both were later replaced by Astra GTEs. The XR3i was an ideal urban traffic car because it was relatively small and nimble but genuinely fast enough to carry out all the tasks demanded by this role. It was thus a formidable weapon in the fight against car crime although, ironically, XR3is were one of the most commonly stolen cars of that era.
The XR3i was used in this role by Merseyside, Durham, Dorset, and Cambridgeshire, but other forces adopted hot hatches for similar duties. With impressive grip and vice-free front-wheel-drive handling, honed by F1 Champion Jackie Stewart, a 0-60 time of 8.6 seconds and a maximum speed of 116mph it could keep up with far more exotic cars in any real-world situation. It could, however, still carry the equipment that the job by then demanded and have two passengers in the back if needed. The UK police started using small performance saloons in the early 1960s, with the Mini Cooper pioneering this role, although other rally and race-bred saloons quickly followed with the Lotus Cortina, Escort Mexico and Escort RS2000 being popular.
Prototype Specifications
| Engine | 1597cc 4IL SOHC |
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| Power | 105bhp / 6000rpm |
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| Torque | 101lb.ft / 4800rpm |
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| Maximum speed | 116mph |
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| 0-60 mph | 8.6 seconds |
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| Weight | 2040lbs |
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