Description
This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, The Iconic Sale at Race Retro 2025 - Competition Cars on Saturday the 22nd of February, Stoneleigh Park, Stoneleigh Rd, Coventry, CV8 2LG. On offer here is a right-hand drive Mk1 Ford Escort that has been campaigned in the historic racing scene in Australia. The all-steel bodyshell came originally from a 1970 1, 600cc car, is reported to be clean with no rust and is wearing Australian VIN plates. We’re informed that the car originally built for racing fitted with a 1, 975cc, alloy-blocked, wet-sump BDG but had to be re-sleeved to 1, 600cc to meet the local Touring Car regulations in Australia.
The engine currently remains at 1, 600cc, fuelled by twin sidedraft Webers, exhausted through a Tony Law Manifold and mated to a 4-speed gearbox. Front suspension is coil-over with adjustable platforms, rear suspension is 4-link with leaf springs, it sits on 13" Minilite-style wheels and the rear axle is an Atlas fitted with drum brakes as per the Australian regulations.
The current owner bought the car to the UK a few years ago with the intention of developing it to a full European-spec FIA 'Group 2' Historic Saloon, however other projects took priority and the car is now on the market. We understand that it would be possible to take the engine back to 1, 975cc if 'Group 2' was the new owner’s ambition but, if that is not the case, then the little Escort would fit well into UK Club Racing or even rallying.
Very well presented in an attractive shade of blue, this impressive Escort is sensibly estimated at a level that allows scope for buyers to take the car further or just enjoy as is. Apart from a ‘shakedown’ test when it first arrived, we understand that it has not been used ‘in anger’. As with any competition car, it’s important to check the currency and suitability of the safety equipment (belts, seats, tank, extinguishers etc.) to ensure it’s appropriate for whatever level of motorsport the car’s next owner has in mind.
This is a rare opportunity and we invite and encourage your viewing of this delightful Mk1 at our Race Retro sale.
