Ford Escort Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Ford Escort

The Ford Escort was introduced in 1968 as a competitor to the Opel Kadett and Vauxhall Viva, with simultaneous launches by Ford's British and German divisions. Developed as a replacement for the Ford Anglia, the Escort quickly claimed a spot among Europe’s top-selling cars, with seven generations produced from 1968 to 2000. The Escort consistently adapted to the needs of European families and enthusiasts: the first generation became notorious for its success in international rallying, with distinctive design elements like the so-called 'dog bone' grille in Germany. Production milestones were quickly surpassed, with the 100,000th unit leaving the Halewood plant only months after launch. Each subsequent generation brought evolutionary changes, both technically and visually, with the Escort remaining a versatile choice for families and sports drivers alike.

Model History - Generations and Evolution

• Mk1 (1968-1974): Launched with engines from 29 to 74 kW, available in various body styles. Fast gained a reputation in motorsport and daily usability.
• Mk2 (1974-1980): Brought a more angular look, rear-wheel drive retained, and additions like the RS1800 for motorsport. Mechanically close to Mk1 but visually distinct.
• Mk3 (1980-1985): Marked shift to front-wheel drive, hatchback variants, wider engine lineup (including first diesel option), and the start of hot hatch concepts with XR3/XR3i.
• Mk4 (1986-1990): Continuation of Mk3’s platform with revised styling and technology updates, like improved braking systems.
• Mk5 (1990-1995): Boosted power ranges up to 162 kW, facelifted versions and further-emphasised performance roles, especially through sport editions.
• Mk6 (1995-2000): Technical refinement more than a revolution, still based on Mk5.
• End of Line (2000): Replaced by the Ford Focus, but production lingered into 2000. Each variant reflected changing tastes, regulatory demands, and motorsport influences.

Highlights and Key Features

Few cars matched the Escort for sheer breadth: family saloons, estates, panel vans, cabriolets, and sport coupés sat side-by-side in the range. The Escort became synonymous with rally prowess — especially with the competition-tuned Twin Cam, RS1800, and later Cosworth and RS Turbo versions. Motorsport success put the Escort in the spotlight, especially after multiple wins in the WRC and iconic events like the London–Mexico Rally. The diversity of special editions, from the Mexico to the RS2000, XR3i, RS Cosworth and the rare homologation specials, set the Escort apart from the competition.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Motorsport Homologations

The Escort family boasts a rich portfolio of special editions. The Escort Mexico (Mk1) paid tribute to Ford’s 1970 London–Mexico rally victory, featuring a reinforced bodyshell, 1600cc Kent Crossflow and was often prepped for motorsport from new. The RS1600 (Mk1) introduced the Cosworth BDA engine, a 16-valve twin-cam, with only about 1,154 units built, geared for international rally use. RS2000 (various generations) paired practicality with performance, while the RS Turbo (Mk3/Mk4) was Ford’s entry into turbocharged front-wheel-drive specials. The RS Cosworth (Mk5/6) remains the marque’s turbocharged, all-wheel-drive, rally-bred flagship, well known for its giant whale-tail rear wing, hand-assembled YBT engines and limited numbers (~7,145). Each of these special variants featured purpose-designed mechanicals, unique interiors, and distinct appearance packages.

Weak Spots and Areas to Watch

No weak spot data has been provided for the Escort. Historically, earlier Escorts (Mk1–Mk2) often face rust, particularly in sills, arches and floorpans. Models modified for motorsport may have non-original panels or chassis repairs; verify authenticity and check for stress or corrosion on suspension mounts and bulkheads. Later models (Mk3–Mk6) can show typical issues with CV joints, cooling systems, and electricals. As with any older car, a diligent check of service history, underbody, and mechanical condition is crucial.

Engine, Performance and Handling

Escort engines range from tax-friendly OHVs to motorsport-winning Cosworth units. Early Mk1s and Mk2s use lightweight chassis and rear-wheel drive for playful handling, favoured in rally sport. Escorts switched to front-wheel drive from Mk3 onwards, but even these models, especially XR3i and RS1600i, maintained sharp, responsive character. Sport versions receive uprated suspension, quick-ratio steering racks, and performance brakes. The RS Cosworth (Mk5/6) set the Escort’s high-water mark: turbocharged 2.0-litre, all-wheel drive, 227 PS, and designed from the ground up for WRC homologation. Diesel and standard models focus on reliability and everyday usability. - Escort RS1600 (Mk1): 1.6-litre DOHC Cosworth, 115–240 PS depending on spec, 0–100 km/h under 8 seconds in tuned variants

• Escort RS2000 (Mk1/Mk2): 2.0-litre OHC, about 100 PS, strong torque, usable performance for classic driving
• XR3i (Mk3): Hot hatch, 1.6-litre injection, 105 PS, sharp dynamics without excess weight
• RS Turbo (Mk3/Mk4): 1.6-litre turbo, 132 PS, 0–100 km/h under 8 seconds
• RS Cosworth (Mk5/Mk6): Turbocharged 2.0, 227 PS, AWD, rally-proven

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Accessories

Escort interiors varied from functional cloth/vinyl benches on early base models to Recaro-equipped, bespoke-trimmed sports editions. Dashboard design evolved with each generation: early cars offer minimal, clear dials; later GT/RS/Escort Cosworth variants add oil gauges, turbo boost indicators and sport steering wheels. Paint and trim options multiplied in the 1980s and 1990s: RS and limited editions received unique striping, metallic finishes, and colour-keyed body kits. Cabriolet and 'Turnier' estates show the range’s versatility, while add-ons like fog lights, spoilers, sunroofs, and special alloys became common on upper specifications. Accessories from the period — such as roof racks, rally slab mudflaps, and specific RS badging — are period-correct and sought after. The “whale tail” wing on RS Cosworth models became a rallying visual signature.

Other Notable Features

Production spanned major Ford plants in the UK and Germany: notable for the AVO (Advanced Vehicle Operations) department in Aveley, responsible for many special series, and Karmann’s role producing shells for Cosworth. Safety provisions developed rapidly during the Escort’s run: safety glass, belts for all seats, ABS on later sport models, and rollover protection in specific motorsport versions. Club and scene support for the Escort remain immense in the UK and mainland Europe, with active parts provision and specialist workshops fostering continued enthusiasm.

Summary – A True Cornerstone of European Motoring

The Ford Escort’s story is defined by versatility: it carried families, fuelled motorsport victories, and inspired generations through practical engineering and affordable performance. Seven model generations, a tapestry of engine options, constant motorsport validation, and an enduring owner community make the Escort a lasting presence among classic cars. For collectors and drivers alike, Escorts offer everything from practical estate to razor-sharp rally car, each chapter bringing new engineering, personality, and driving engagement.