This weeks blog we discuss an absolute classic in the rally world and a car that is still sought after by many, the Ford Escort Mk1. It was a small family car that was produced by Ford of Europe from 1968 to 1975. It was a replacement for the Ford Anglia and was a huge success, selling over two million units during its production run.
THE DESIGN
The Mk1 was available in a variety of body styles, including two-door saloon, four-door saloon, estate, and van. It was powered by a range of engines, including a 1.1-litre, 1.3-litre, and 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine. The Mk1 Escort was a significant car for Ford. It was the first car to be developed by the merged Ford of Europe, and it helped to establish the company as a major player in the European car market. The Mk1 Escort was also a popular choice for motorsport, and its success on the rally stage helped to boost Ford's image as a performance brand.
RALLY HISTORY
The Escort Mk1 was a successful rally car because it was lightweight, agile, and had a good power-to-weight ratio. It was also well-supported by Ford's motorsport division, which helped to develop the car and provide parts and support to teams. The Escort Mk1's first major rally victory came in the 1968 Circuit of Ireland Rally with Roger Clark and Jim Porter behind the wheel. There was many other notable victory with this car, one of which was by the legendary Flying Finn, Timo Makinen. With co-driver Henry Liddon by his side, they drove the Mk1 to victory in the 1973 1,000 Lakes Rally. A year earlier in 1972, Roger Clark with co-driver Tony Mason blasted to victory in the RAC rally of Great Britain. The Escort's success in rallying helped to make it a popular car on the road. It was an extremely popular choice for motorsport enthusiasts, who modified the car for racing and rallying. The Escort Mk1 remains a popular classic car today, and it is often seen at car shows and rallies.
GRAHAM’S BUILD
Graham conducted a full restoration on his now converted AWD Mk1 Escort. Now running a Cosworth YB engine with 83lb fuel injectors and a twin scroll turbo making 507BHP and 445 ft lbs of torque. This is all bolted up to a Skyline GT-R Gearbox with Quaife Front & Rear Differentials. I’m sure you can agree that this, combined with the striking green colour of the car makes it seriously stand out above the rest. Some other features on Graham’s Mk1 include a custom exhaust manifold, auto specialist inlet, airtec intercooler, twin 044 fuel pumps, Rex rally wheels and a fully adjustable back axel.
TO CONCLUDE
The Ford Escort Mk1 was a successful car on the road and on the rally stage, and it helped to make Ford a major player in the world of motorsport. The Escort Mk1 is still a seriously popular classic car today, and it is sure to continue to be enjoyed by enthusiasts at car shows and meets for as long as they are still on the road.
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