Ford Escort Mk. I Twin Cam, 1971
Ford Escort I
Ford Escort I•
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Chassis No.: BBATKG25639
Engine No.: BBATKG25639
Registration: AKE 521K
Having witnessed one of the Escort prototypes being tested during early 1967, Henry Taylor, Ford’s competition department manager, thought the new model would be an ideal platform for the Lotus Twin Cam engine. The shell was strengthened and there were also some modifications under the bonnet and the front bumpers were split into two halves so the oil-cooler could be allowed to breathe more efficiently. The suspension was completely redesigned and brakes were bigger. In January 1969, Ford switched the original rectangular headlights to more effective circular units.
Such luminaries such as Roger Clark and Hannu Mikkola drove these cars to victory and their name became a byword in Rally stages across the world. Production of the Escort Twin Cam was discontinued in June 1971 with just 883 ever built with only 380 with circular headlights and just a handful surviving. This rare example, in classic Ermine White, is presented in standard road trim. It was first delivered to KT Dartford Ford of Kent and purchased subsequently purchased by the current owner in 1979. He sold it three years later but couldn't bear to be parted and re-acquired the car in 2009 and has owned it for the last 13 years.
Included in the history file is photographic evidence of a complete strip down and repaint some years ago with the paint work remaining in good order today. All elements appear sound underneath the bonnet including the vital but subtle ‘Twin Cam’ moniker to the rear boot lid. The interior shows the correct specification instrumentation with a six-gauge oval binnacle and natural alloy fascia. Optional black padded ‘contour’ seats have been installed combined with a deep-dish, three-spoke steering wheel.
This example, reportedly, is incredibly reliable and benefits from recent Gaz strut inserts in the front suspension, a new battery, a full one-year MoT, the original owner’s handbook and supplementary workshop manual.
