1973 FORD ESCORT (MK1) MEXICO

This 1973 Ford Escort (Mk1) Mexico is an upgraded example of a beloved classic, which has been modified for amateur competition use. Under the bonnet is now an RS specification 2.0-litre Pinto engine, coupled to an RS four-speed manual transmission. The odometer currently indicates 58,762 miles, though this is not the correct total from new.

First registered in October 1973, this Escort Mexico left the factory with the 1.6-litre Crossflow engine, and it was originally finished in either Maize Yellow or Daytona Yellow. Today, it presents in competition-style specification, equipped with its replacement engine, resprayed in white, and with electronic ignition, an alloy radiator and an electric fan, and a performance exhaust system.

The car has also been fitted with a new clutch and single-piece heavy duty propshaft to suit the RS transmission, while the car rides on Bilstein shock absorbers and is stopped by a set of vented front disc brakes. Inside, the cabin features a quick-shift gear lever, along with racing seats, a tripmeter and a map light.

The bodywork presents well overall, and the respray in white appears to have been carried out to a good standard. It features black pinstripes with ‘Mexico’ decals along each side, and the original 1600 GT wing badges. The vendor notes that some patches of rust have begun to appear, while some age-related stone chips can be seen, alongside a few scrapes to the lower panels – most notably the offside rear corner. The car has been fitted with a set of Halogen Super Sport lamps, and it rides on a set of 13-inch wheels, which have some discolouration in places.

Inside, the cabin has been partially stripped out in places, and the original front seats have been replaced with a pair of bucket seats. There does not appear to be any damage to the seat upholstery, though evidently it could be significant improved with a thorough clean and detail should the next owner desire. Some light marks can be seen on the original door cards, while the headlining is sagging slightly.. Some of the original dials do not operate, though the additional racing switchgear is all believed to be in good working order.

The last routine maintenance was a full service before the car’s last rally in summer 2020, which included an engine oil and cambelt change. During the vendor’s ownership, a new steering rack has also been fitted, and the exhaust system and manifold have been replaced.

The most recent MOT test was on 3 October 2020, which resulted in a clean pass with no advisories or defects. The tyres are reported to be one year old, and appear to be in good condition.

This Ford Escort Mexico is a competition build with a number of desirable modifications, and which will no doubt provide an exciting driving experience for its next owner. With fully restored ‘Rallye Sport’ Escorts commanding significant sums, this represents a great opportunity to acquire an upgraded Mexico, which could be readily enjoyed in amateur motorsport as-is, or could form the basis for a more substantial restoration or rebuild.

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All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.