Leading classic and niche vehicle website Car & Classic is offering a very rare 1981 Ford Fiesta MkI Bravo special edition on its online auction platform.
In very good, original condition, with apparent low mileage and powered by the 1.1l version of the Valencia engine, the Bravo is one of fewer than 20 models left on the road. The limited edition was launched in 1981, part of the (nearly) fifty-year history of the ubiquitous Fiesta, which went on to become the best-selling car in British history before a decision was taken to discontinue the model in June 2023.
The MkI Bravo has retained its in-period dealer plates, correct 12” wheels and the familiar red pinstripes and ‘Bravo’ decals (typical of the MkI, no longer appearing in the MkII Bravo). It was SORN-ed from 2011 to 2021, before being briefly used again. The five-figure odometer shows 12,600 miles driven by seven owners (from new), and the Fiesta is currently SORN-ed.
The ‘Bravo’ moniker has now become a nostalgic reference to the Fiesta’s history as the model was poised to be named Bravo until right before its launch in 1976. “It is a brilliant opportunity to own a rare version of the much-loved city car we have seen on our roads for almost half a century and just before its production, in the current form, is halted forever,” says Car & Classic Head of Editorial Chris Pollitt.
When new, according to Ford’s official press release, this model cost £4,215. The Fiesta Bravo being auctioned by Car & Classic on 29th January may fetch over twice as much.
“We know that, since the current model’s discontinuation announcement, Ford Fiesta searches on Car & Classic’s platform have gone up by almost 20%, and those of the MkI, specifically, by over 150%,” continues Pollitt. “Interest in the hugely popular city car is only going to increase this year,” he concludes.
Auction starts on January 29, 2023
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