Ford Escort JPS – Souza Ramos. A customized Ford Escort XR3 made by Brazilian dealership Souza Ramos.

The 1980s were truly unique in Brazil. This is because, for 14 years, imports were prohibited, which meant that everything had to be produced in the country without any foreign materials. As a result, several manufacturers of custom vehicles emerged.

This type of car was very successful in the country and brought together two interesting things: style and exclusivity. They were expensive, but on the other hand, they gave their owners something very special.

In addition to specialized manufacturers, some dealers have also become a reference in vehicle customization.

One of them was Souza Ramos, a traditional Ford dealer in São Paulo, which created a very interesting project based on the Escort XR3, launched in 1984.

The JPS, in reference to the cigarette manufacturer John Player Special, who sponsored the project, arose from this need. It featured aerodynamic appendages and a body kit that suggested something fast and sporty.

The interior was also not forgotten, with finishes that could have been from the Ghia version or the XR3 itself.

The mechanical part was not forgotten. Initially, the use of the 1.6-liter CHT engine proved insufficient for the car’s purpose, since it ended up weighing more than the original. However, with the adoption of the turbocharger in the last version, the story was different as the power jumped to approximately 120 hp and with a maximum speed of 196 km/h or 121.8 mph. The version was highly praised by the specialized press.

by OriginalPapaya8