Basic information and history

The 1972 Ford Escort Mexico is a Mk1 model with roots in Ford's rallying and AVO production. The Mexico version featured a reinforced body and a stripped-down, functional specification that provided low weight and robust characteristics for tough driving. The combination of a simple, efficient chassis construction and an easy-to-drive four-cylinder four-stroke engine has made the model popular in historic racing and rallying.

According to the seller, this example is based on a 1972 Mexico sold in Sweden. The car was scrapped in 1984, rebuilt as a racing car in the 1990s and used until 2008. It was then stored in a garage and put back into use the previous year, with sparing driving since then. The odometer reading is stated at 95,681 km. The number of previous owners is not stated. The car has recently received HTP approval according to the seller, but has not been recently inspected for road traffic. Four extra rims for, for example, rain tires or studded tires are included.

Equipment and options

• Full cage
• Racing chassis according to the regulations for historic racing
• Fender flares and contemporary body modifications
• Ford Lotus Twin Cam 1600 with dual Weber 45 carburetors
• Dry sump system with oil tank in the trunk
• Racing seat mounted, brackets for new approved belts
• Four gauges, including from Racetech
• Four extra rims for alternative tire set-up
• Recently refurbished brakes
• Recently registered HTP approval

According to the seller, the Lotus Twin Cam engine delivers approximately 200 horsepower in combination with a low total weight. The dry sump system supports operational reliability during track sessions. The car is built for historic racing and is stated to be track ready. The seller also states that the car can be rebuilt for rallying and, if desired, can be restored for street use after necessary adaptations.

Condition

Body and paint: According to the seller, the car is in good condition for the type of car. There are marks from track driving on the lower part of the body as well as traces of use in the form of minor dents and stone chips. The body has been modified with fender flares and other contemporary interventions carried out during the 1990s. Glass is in good condition for its age. Chrome, moldings, headlight lenses and emblems are considered okay. See pictures for details.

Interior: Cleaned and painted interior with full cage. A racing seat is fitted and the seller notes that it has been replaced with a similar seat compared to some pictures. Instrumentation with four gauges, including from Racetech. Steering wheel, controls and buttons are stated to be in very good condition with minor signs of use. Headlining and other comfort details are missing as part of the track adaptation. See pictures for more information.

Tires and rims: Tires in good condition with signs of use. Rims show general wear from light use. Four extra rims included for alternative tire choices.

Mechanical and Functionality: The 1600 cc Lotus Twin Cam engine is reported to run very well with no known faults. The engine is equipped with twin Weber 45 carburettors and a dry sump system. The gearbox and drivetrain are described as being in very good condition. The brakes have been recently overhauled and are reported to be in good condition. The car has been driven sparingly since it was returned to service.

Service history

According to the seller, continuous service has been carried out in connection with use. There is a recently registered HTP approval, see documentation pictures. Specific service book or collected receipt documentation beyond this is not reported in the information. The brakes have been recently renovated, otherwise please refer to the pictures and the seller's description.

Summary

Escort Mexico from 1972 with Swedish background that was built for historic racing in the 1990s. Upgraded drivetrain with Lotus Twin Cam, dual Weber 45 carburetors and dry sump system, as well as full cage and racing chassis according to current regulations. Recently HTP-approved according to the seller. Odometer reading 95,681 km. The car has not been recently inspected for street use, but the seller states that conversion for street use or rally is possible. With four extra rims and a configuration adapted for track use, this appears to be an interesting basis for continued competition driving in historic racing. See documentation and pictures for details.