1973 Ford Escort Mk1 Mexico

It seems likely that Ford already had plans to produce a high-performance Escort to fit in the range between the 1300GT and the Twin-Cam/RS1600, and their victory in Mexico provided an ideal platform to launch such a model. The engineers at the newly formed AVO (Advanced Vehicles Operations) quickly developed the Mexico, marrying the stronger Type 49 bodyshell (as used in the more expensive Twin-Cam and RS1600), which aided the car's sporty, rear-wheel drive character, with the reliable and responsive Kent crossflow engine and 2000E gearbox. So effectively the Mexico was a re-engined Twin-Cam/RS1600 and the model was built from 1970 to 1974 at the AVO plant.

The Mexico was the most successful and numerous of the 'Rally Sport Escorts' and was an instant sales hit, with buyers loving its wide-wheeled stance, bold graphics and rally-inspired DNA. It had a number of advantages on the road, in that it had decent performance, was easy to maintain, relatively easy to insure and above all, it was great fun to drive with a sharp throttle response, precise controls and a raspy exhaust note all adding to the drama.

Finished in Daytona Yellow, this outstanding Mk1 Escort Mexico has clearly been the subject of an intense, ground-up restoration from its original Type 49 bodyshell to the superb engine bay and onwards into the excellent interior. First registered on 23rd February 1973, it remains in its original colour combination and interestingly was in constant use until 2014 at which time the decision was taken that a timetable of rectification was required to remedy the ravages of time.

This work was entrusted to the experienced hands of Tony Collins at Classic Car Restorations in Kent who, after a long and protracted period of time returned the bodywork to its former glory. Restoration of the classic Mexico interior was the responsibility of Kent Car Upholstery and as is obvious from our images, the results are impressive. The engine rebuild was completed by ‘Bailey & Liddle’ of Faversham utilising an A2 cam, steel rocker-posts, an HD oil pump, and unleaded valves, with the engine bay fully detailed as you would expect resulting in, what we suggest, is one of the finest Mk1 Mexicos available today.

Completed some years ago, the Escort has formed part of a private 'Blue Oval' Collection since, with little use but constant and continual care as and when required. Interest in Performance Fords from the 1970s and 1980s shows no signs of abating and this remarkable Daytona Yellow Mexico would be an asset to any enthusiast of these era-defining, characterful, sporting Fords.