Classic Ford Escort RS Mexico up for sale at auction – how you could own a piece of rally history
A STUNNING Ford Escort RS Mexico is up for sale at auction – and it could be more affordable than you might think.
The racy 1978 Mexico model, with around 88,000 miles on the clock, is going under the hammer with a guide price of £20,000 to £25,000.
Its lucky owner has had the classic RS for the past seven years, and has uprated the engine along with other impressive additions.
The special Escort is well known in enthusiast circles, and was the star of a four-page spread in Classic Ford magazine back in 2015.
Finished in gorgeous Venetian Red paintwork with black cloth interior trim, it also has four spotlights, a rare RS Owners Club sun strip and RS mud flaps all-round.
But, the real treat is the modified 2.0-litre petrol engine, which replaces the original 1.6-litre version and now puts out an impressive 142bhp.
Other mods include a quick steering rack and a trio of console-mounted auxiliary gauges.
One of the Escort’s most memorable early competition wins was Hannu Mikkola’s victory in the 1970 London to Mexico World Cup Rally.
And, to capitalise on its rally success, Ford created the limited edition, AVO-built Escort Mexico in time for the 1971 season.
Hampson Auctions, who are handling the sale, have stated that this particular model also comes with a comprehensive history file and current MOT.
Bidders have a bit of time to size up any offers, as the auction takes place on July 30th.