1973 Ford Escort Mk1 Mexico

Few cars encapsulate the spirit of Ford's golden era of rally-inspired performance motoring quite like the Mk1 Escort Mexico. Conceived in the wake of Ford's triumphant victory in the gruelling 1970 London-to-Mexico World Cup Rally, the Mexico was developed by Ford's newly established Advanced Vehicle Operations (AVO) division as a more accessible yet equally engaging alternative to the Twin-Cam and RS1600.

Utilising the stronger and highly desirable Type 49 bodyshell, shared with its more exotic stablemates, and combining it with the proven 1.6-litre Kent Crossflow engine and slick-shifting 2000E gearbox, the Mexico delivered a winning formula. Robust, responsive and hugely entertaining to drive, it quickly became the most successful and recognisable of the AVO-built Rally Sport Escorts. Its distinctive stance, bold graphics and competition pedigree made it an instant showroom success, whilst its durability and relative affordability ensured enduring popularity amongst enthusiasts.

Finished, as it remains today, in its original and highly desirable Daytona Yellow, this exceptional example was first registered on 23rd February 1973. Having enjoyed regular use throughout much of its life, by 2014 it was decided that a full programme of restoration was required to return the car to the standard it deserved.

The work was entrusted to respected marque specialists, Classic Car Restorations of Kent, under the direction of Tony Collins. The Escort was stripped to its bare shell before undergoing an exhaustive restoration, returning the bodywork to a superb standard throughout. The interior was subsequently restored by Kent Car Upholstery, recreating the Mexico's distinctive cockpit with impressive attention to detail and authenticity.

Mechanically, the engine was rebuilt by Bailey & Liddle of Faversham and upgraded sympathetically with an A2 camshaft, steel rocker posts, heavy-duty oil pump and unleaded-compatible valves. The engine bay presents beautifully, detailed to a standard befitting the quality of the restoration as a whole.

Completed several years ago, the Mexico has since formed part of a private Collection, seeing only limited use whilst benefiting from ongoing maintenance and careful stewardship. Today it remains a wonderfully presented example of one of Ford's most celebrated sporting models and, in our opinion, represents one of the finer Mk1 Mexico’s currently available.

As interest in the great performance Fords of the 1970s continues to strengthen, opportunities to acquire examples restored and presented to this level are becoming increasingly scarce. Combining AVO pedigree, desirable specification and outstanding condition, this striking Mexico is a compelling proposition for the serious Ford enthusiast or discerning collector alike.