This XE-generation Ford Fairmont Ghia ESP is a generally well-preserved example of the very rare modern classic Australian sports sedan, offered from long-term ownership and reported to be in largely original condition. Under the bonnet now sits a 302-cubic inch (4.9-litre) naturally aspirated Cleveland V8, which sends its power to the rear wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission. The original, ‘numbers-matching’ 250-cubic inch (4.1-litre) inline-six will also be supplied with the car. This example has been with the seller and third owner for 17 years. This XE-generation Fairmont Ghia ESP (European Sports Pack) is understood to be one of just 538 examples produced. The odometer shows 225,949 Kms from new. The desirable European Sports Pack (ESP) was an optional pack available for buyers of the luxury-orientated Ford Fairmont Ghia, which featured a two-tone paint scheme, Scheel front bucket seats, upgraded suspension, a quicker steering ratio, a rear axle tramp rod, a Watts linkage, coil springs for the live-axle back end, and ‘snowflake’ alloy wheels finished in gold. This example is finished in the bold two-tone Monza Red and black paint scheme with distinctive orange front, rear, and side trim mouldings, over a two-tone Gun Metal cloth-trimmed interior, featuring a black dashboard. It rides on a correct set of 15-inch ‘Snowflake’ alloy wheels finished in gold with anodised lips, shod in Triangle TR988 tyres. Equipment includes a heated rear screen, a two-spoke steering wheel, a Sony cassette stereo, air conditioning, and electrically adjustable door mirrors. The car is accompanied by the original ‘numbers-matching’ 250-cubic inch (4.1-litre) inline-six engine, a spare wheel, a jack, general tools, verification documents from Ford Motor Company Australia, proving the example to be a genuine ‘option 54’ ESP model. Please note: the numberplate ‘52026 J’ shown on the vehicle is not included in the sale. It will revert to an appropriate, age-related numberplate in the event of a successful auction. Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition. Specific notes from the seller include: some blemishes in the topcoat. This XE-generation Ford Fairmont Ghia ESP is a solid and largely original example of the highly desirable modern classic Australian sports sedan, offered from long-term ownership. Understood to be one of only 538 examples produced with the sought-after European Sports Pack, and boasting a number of desirable factory performance and cosmetic upgrades, it would make a notable addition to any marque enthusiast’s collection, and a charismatic companion for retro daily driving, weekend fun, and visits to classic car shows alike. The description of this consignment is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. Potential buyers should view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy. Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible vehicles to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, either to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be undetectable even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork during its life. Furthermore, photographs may not reflect the true colour or full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to satisfy themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy. This includes by raising enquiries with the seller in the comments section. For vehicles, unless otherwise stated, potential buyers should also assume that any cherished registration may be retained by the seller. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details. This vehicle’s VIN has been checked against the Australian Personal Property Securities Register, and there is no security interest or other registration kind logged against the serial number. This vehicle has been checked through the Austroads NEVDIS system, and there are no markers under the written-off or stolen databases.