Lot 249: 1973 Ford Escort Mexico MK I

Ford announced an additional model to its Escort range in 1970, the Ford Escort Mexico. The Mexico was intended to cash-in on Fords success during the London-to-Mexico rally, which had been won by a works Escort. The Mexico had a specially strengthened two door saloon body shell as well as RS (Rally Sport) suspension and brakes.Externally the Mexico often came with special alloy wheels, four sport lamps and invariably sported wide body stripes in a contrasting colour to the rest of the paintwork. Despite having only a modest 86bhp the Mexico gained quite a following and has become very collectable since production ended in 1974.Manufactured in June 1973 this Mexico has been extensively prepared for historic rallying with a Vulcan Engineering prepared 1640cc cross-flow engine producing 150bhp. Kent 244 cams, ported head and lightened flywheel top the spec list. The engine feeds through Twin 40 DCOE Webers. Keeping everything cool is a Group 4 alloy radiator with electric fan.Power is fed through a Tranx straight-cut 'rocket' 4 speed gearbox with quick shift and alloy bell-housing and Salisbury LSD. To rein in the power this Mexico is fitted with standard discs and M16 callipers up-front with Mintex pads. Handling is provided by Leda front struts and twin-cam anti-roll bars and an alloy strut brace.The Mexico shell features polycarbonate side windows and a boot mounted aircraft spec. battery with electronic cut-out. Safety is courtesy of a Safety Devices 6-point roll-cage, OMP race seats, new Sabelt 5-point belts and a Rally Design plumbed in fire extinguisher. Inside the car all rally aids are present with a Brantz trip, intercom and map-lights. The car is described as being in good condition and is supplied with 2 spare wheels in the boot, a V5 document, MoT valid until July, an MSA Competition and RAC post historic log book. Eligible for many historic race series throughout Europe.