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. This bright, Monza Blue, first generation Escort has been a well known competitor in recent years, covering many miles on rally stages all over the UK with frequent outings in the British Historic Rally Championship and HRCR events and some notable finishes along the way. Clearly, with regular stage appearances, this is not, nor does it pretend to be, a 'show queen', however the car presents really well, sitting all-square, fit for purpose and ready to go.
It was purchased in 2017 as a rolling shell and has been built with one purpose in mind - to be used and enjoyed as intended be that on tarmac or forest stages, although it's currently been set up for gravel by its present owner and long-time rally stalwart, Philip Atkinson. Motivation is provided by an all-steel 1600 Twin-Cam engine, fully prepared by David Gathercole of renowned engine builders, Gathercole Race Engines, mated to a recently refreshed gearbox which we understand may benefit from a little gentle use to get it fully bedded in and ready for its next adventure. The Twin-Cam sits in a very tidy engine bay that has been professionally prepared, as has the boot, which is neatly laid-out with an alloy caged remote filler, twin Facet fuel pumps with braided lines, oil catch tank, carbon battery box and quick-release spare wheel etc.
The car's interior is one of the best we have seen in a 'club' rally car with bracketed Cobra seats, TRS harnesses, Racetech instruments, Brantz 2 timer, Stilo DG-10 intercom and a superbly designed dashboard centre switch/ fuse panel.
Naturally, as with any competition car, it's important to asses the currency and suitability of any safety-related equipment (seats, belts, tank, extinguishers etc.).
Having had some success over the years, including a C2 Class win within the HRCR, we suggest that this very affordable rally-prepared Escort, in the right hands, will provide the next custodian with a great deal of sideways fun and entertainment within historic rally car circles and with that in mind, we welcome and encourage your early inspection to fully satisfy yourself as to the suitability of this particular Blue Oval rally contender.
