FOR SALE JF CLASSIC CARS are delighted to present a highly sought  after and exceptionally well-preserved 1980 Mk2 Ford Escort Harrier Registered January 1980, A model recognised today as one of the most desirable special edition Escorts ever produced. Created to celebrate Ford’s motorsport success and based upon the popular Mk2 Escort, the Harrier was built in extremely limited numbers, making surviving examples rare and truly valuable to enthusiasts and collectors alike DESCRIPTION The Ford Escort Harrier occupies a very special place in the heritage of the Mk2 Escort range produced only for a short period between late 1979 and early 1980, it was offered exclusively as a celebratory special edition to acknowledge Ford’s continuing motorsport success, Only around 1,500 Harriers were ever manufactured, and of those, just 500 were produced in Strato Silver, the rarest and most sought-after colour specification of all. The Harrier was not just a colour-and-trim package it represented Ford’s last special edition Mk2 Escort before the transition into the front-wheel-drive Mk3 era. Today, a correct Harrier is considered one of the most desirable non-RS Mk2 variants, highly regarded by enthusiasts and commanding respect within the Ford collector community. The combination of limited production, short manufacturing window, and rare Strato Silver allocation positions this example as a standout investment opportunity one of the very few remaining cars that retains the authenticity and originality required to satisfy even the most knowledgeable aficionado. EXTERNAL This Mk2 Harrier presents with an exceptionally well-preserved exterior that reads as both authentic and highly desirable. Finished in the optional dealer Strato Silver, the paint displays a uniform gloss shine from nose to tail and the panel gaps are pin-sharp throughout a clear sign of careful ownership and correct preservation. At the front a bold black-slatted grille sits proudly, perfectly centred with the blue-oval Ford badge, and the original Hella headlamps remain crystal clear and entirely free from chips or damage. The front corner bumpers sit true and unmarked, flowing into the body with factory precision. Running the length of each flank are the Harrier’s unique three-tone blue body stripes, applied crisply and free from lifting or discolouration, giving the car its distinctive and correct period appearance. All external trims and badging are clean, crisp and correctly positioned, the door-mounted rear view mirrors retaining their original fit and finish The triple tinted glazing throughout is unscratched while the surrounding door and window rubbers remain supple and fresh not perished or hardened as is often seen on cars of this age. To the rear, the black wrap-around bumper sits straight and true and the boot spoiler aligns perfectly with the body, both showing the sort of condition associated with a low-use, cherished example. The rear light lenses are clear, chip and fade-free, completing an exterior that is consistent, correct and highly presentable. In short, this Harrier’s outward appearance is a textbook example of careful custodianship a rare and very special survivor INTERIOR Stepping inside this Mk2 Escort Harrier is like opening the door to a 1980 true period-correct, time-warp cabin that remains remarkably original. The Harrier-specific black Beta cloth seats present in very good condition throughout, the bolsters still offering that snug, supportive embrace the model is known for, with no sagging, splitting or excessive wear Iconic fishnet front headrests sit proudly atop the seats, and the rear bench is unmarked, looking as though it has seen minimal use over the past four decades. Both the front tilt mechanism and the rotary seat-adjustment wheel operate correctly, allowing smooth movement and confirming the car’s unmolested mechanical interior setup. The black door cards front and rear remain tidy and free from damage, housing original door furniture including manual wind-down windows and the unmistakably period manually-adjustable driver’s door mirror control wonderfully simple and charmingly analogue. Underfoot, the black carpet is clean and well-preserved, helped greatly by the early fitment of protective over-mats The dashboard remains as Ford intended minimalistic, functional, and full of seventies character. The glovebox sits low on the passenger side, with a round adjustable heater vent positioned just above. Slide-toggle ventilation controls sit centrally flanked by original push-button switchgear for hazards, rear screen heater, brake warning function and cigarette lighter all operating as expected. Ahead of the driver, the binnacle houses the essentials with clarity and simplicity tachometer to the left, fuel and temperature gauges centrally placed, and the speedometer to the right showing 22,161 miles. All obligatory warning lights illuminate and extinguish correctly on start-up. A final round heater vent to the right side completes a dashboard that is refreshingly honest, original and free from unnecessary modification. The three-spoke flat-face steering wheel presents very well while the four-speed manual gear lever and surround sit neatly and comfortably within the centre console operating precisely with the familiarity only a Ford gearbox offers. To finish, the cabin is complemented by its original Ford push-button radio, still in place the final detail in a cockpit that remains wonderfully pure, highly authentic and increasingly difficult to find in this condition. An interior not only preserved but celebrated exactly as the Harrier should be. ENGINE & TRANSMISSION Under the bonnet lies the factory-correct 1598cc Kent Crossflow engine, breathing through its original induction and presenting exactly as Ford intended. Start-up is crisp and clean, settling quickly into a steady idle without hesitation or smoke. Power delivery is robust, linear and willing, pulling strongly through the rev band whether cruising through town or stretching its legs across open B-roads. The Harrier’s 4-speed manual gearbox engages positively with a precise shift pattern and excellent clutch take-up, giving the car that unmistakable analogue Ford driving feel raw, responsive and unbelievably engaging. The engine bay remains beautifully presented with factory stamping, and genuine fittings still in situ. A wonderfully honest survivor. WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES The Harrier stands correctly on its original RS four-spoke alloys, freshly finished and unmarked with no curb scarring or deterioration. Tyres are matched with healthy tread all round and suit the car’s character perfectly, ensuring predictable grip and compliant handling. Front disc brakes and rear drums operate firmly with straight tracking and confident pedal response, while suspension remains composed, tight and remarkably rattle-free impressive for a 44-year-old Escort. Road manners are beautifully balanced, the car feeling light, nimble and responsive. A perfect example of Ford’s golden-era driving sensation. HISTORY First registered on the 1st January 1980 along with matching numbers this is a piece of true Ford heritage, Rare by today's standards and in the optional upgrade colour of 'Strato Silver' this is a true investment that will only ever keep going one way whilst displaying a modest 22161 miles Having a sympathetic freshen up quite a few years ago clearly well maintained and standing the test of time it now after sitting within a private collection the decision came to venture into something more befitting and JF CLASSIC CARS were approached and agreed to purchase the vehicle...here it is! A rare opportunity to acquire one of the last few remaining Harriers on the road, with MOT until July 2026 alongside various historic bills for consumables and V5 Present this surely has to go in a collection or use as is, It simply is that good simply get in and go or put your own mark on it whichever way you choose one thing's for sure you will own a piece of Ford history the envy of many A genuine survivor. A rare piece of Ford heritage. A car that will continue to rise in desirability, rarity and value.