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Curated Auction

1974 Ford Escort Mexico (Mk1)

At a Glance

Restored Example | Private Collection | ~3 Year Ownership

  • Mileage~17,331 on clock
  • TransmissionManual
  • Engine1.6L
  • LocationSwadlincote

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more


Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

CURATED AUCTION

Days
HRS
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CURRENT BID£1,000
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AUCTION LIVE

ENDS IN: 56 Days 12 Hr 51 Min 51 Sec

CURRENT BID

£1,000

Introduction

Paul Wright
Professional Consigner

One of the ultimate Mk1 Escorts - We think the Mexico hits the spot on performance and collectability.

The 1974 Ford Escort Mexico is an iconic model that forms part of the revered Mk1 Escort range, produced by Ford of Britain. Developed as a tribute to Ford’s success in the gruelling 1970 London to Mexico World Cup Rally, the Mexico combined motorsport heritage with road-going reliability. It featured a robust 1.6-litre Kent crossflow engine, offering lively performance and excellent handling, particularly when paired with the lightweight body and revised suspension. The Mexico was distinguishable by its unique styling elements such as bold side stripes, a reinforced body shell, and rally-inspired detailing. Popular among driving enthusiasts and rally fans alike, the Escort Mexico became a cult classic, celebrated for its spirited drive, simplicity, and motorsport pedigree.

Restored and into a collection followed by another collection, this stunning 1974 Escort Mexico is now ready to be fully enjoyed by the next enthusiast – or will it end up in another collection? It comes to market from ~3 year ownership as part of a "Fast Ford" collection of cars spanning 5 decades. It presents in restored condition, and is very much ready to go.

This listing was written from information supplied by Paul after meeting Dave the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

These classic cars hold a lot of nostalgia for me, it's been a pleasure to own and enjoy.

Dave is absolutely a petrol head, there is no denying that. His choice of cars range from a collection of "Fast Fords" spanning 5 decades, to modern supercars like Lamborghini Aventadors and luxury Rolls-Royces. He is thinning down his collection now, and as the classics get much less use, they are coming to market for the first time in a long time.

This particular car was acquired ~3 years ago, and forms part of a collection that will be coming to market this year. It is a restored example of the Mk1 Escort Mexico, and presents beautifully, sitting in the condition it was bought it, dry stored during that time. Dave will be happy to answer any questions about the car in the comments section below.

Dave
Vehicle Owner

Ask Questions

CONTACT OWNER

Exterior

The shape of the Mk1 Escort is already iconic; with the Mexico details you know it’s something very special.

Wheels and Tyres

With a nice upgrade over the original RS alloys, these split rim-style Minilite wheels are in excellent condition, showing no signs of corrosion on the faces. Three of the centre cap badges are missing, and one whole cap on the offside front as pictured.

The tyres are a new set of Yokohama A539, which are in what looks like new condition. Please see the image gallery for detailed shots.

image

Bodywork

Looking around the Mexico, the bodywork is in excellent condition following a full restoration several years ago. Clearly, it has been used very little since then, which is especially noticeable when you take a peek at the underside. There are no dings or dents to mention; however, the only thing we did notice is that both doors do need some adjustment, as they sit a little proud.

High-resolution images and videos have been provided, so please review all media to assess the car’s condition thoroughly.

image

Paint

Finished in "Olympic Blue", the paintwork is excellent, along with the Mexico decals and stripes. These are in white rather than the more traditional contrast you would normally see. There are a couple of minor chips where the bonnet has caught the scuttle panel, but these could easily be touched in we think.

Images are taken from multiple angles to give you a realistic impression of the car, just as if you were standing beside it. Please take the time to examine these high-resolution images and videos to assess the condition for yourself.

image

Glass and Trim

The windows are in good condition with just a few very light age-related marks, as you would expect for their age. The seals appear to have been replaced and are in good condition.

The lights are in good condition with no splits or cracks to the lenses. The front corner bumpers have tarnished slightly, and the rear has a bright finish.

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Interior

Giving a slightly more modern feel inside the Mexico are some leather RS seats from a Focus.

Seats and Carpets

The Focus RS leather seats are in good condition. There is a small amount of colour wear, but nothing excessive; the extra comfort certainly makes up for this. The rear seat is fabric and is in good condition.

Throughout the cabin, the carpets are in good order. Inside the boot is clean and tidy, with the carpet in place.

image

Dashboard

The dashboard is free from damage or scratches, the instruments are working correctly, and the odometer shows a reading of ~17,331 miles on the clock.

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Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

Fitted with a three-spoke RS steering wheel, this is in good order with minimal signs of age. The after market gear knob is aluminium and is free from excessive scratches.

Please refer to the interior gallery for more images.

image

Mechanics

There’s something quite unique about the sound of a Crossflow engine with a Weber carb – and what a fantastic sound it is!

Engine and Gearbox

The engine fires up without hesitation, sounds fantastic, and runs with no issues reported. There is a Simpson Race exhaust manifold fitted, which should add a few extra horses.

The four-speed gearbox has a smooth change, with no untoward noises coming from the transmission or drivetrain on our test drive.

image

Suspension and Brakes

The suspension has been upgraded with adjustable AVO dampers at the rear. The car sits well and handles brilliantly on the road, with no knocks or bangs coming from the car. Polyurethane bushes have been fitted to the steering rack, anti-roll bar, and leaf springs, ensuring everything stays nice and tight.

The brakes use upgraded drilled and grooved discs at the front with braided brake lines and standard drums at the rear. These bring the car to a stop in a straight line with no problems mentioned.

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The Drive

On the road, the Escort Mexico offers a raw, analogue experience that captures the essence of classic rally-bred motoring. With its lively 1.6-litre Kent engine, light weight, and direct steering, the Mexico feels nimble and eager, making even a short drive engaging.

The lack of modern driver aids means you're fully connected to the road, with every gear change, throttle input, and brake application feeling purposeful. It's a car that rewards smooth driving and thrives on twisty B-roads, delivering plenty of old-school charm and a grin with every mile.

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Electrics and Other

All of the electrics in the car are said to be working correctly. There is a small amount of age-related wear to the switchgear, but nothing excessive.

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History and Paperwork

We will let the condition do the talking for the iconic Mexico, coming to market from ~3 year ownership from a collection of Fast Fords.

Unfortunately, there is little history with the Mexico, but it has just passed an MOT with no advisories. An iconic car, fresh from a private collection and ready to go. Form an orderly queue, please.

We’ve summarised the car based on the seller’s information above. As always, we go to great lengths to photograph and film the car in high-resolution detail so you can make your own informed assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So grab a cuppa, relax, and enjoy reviewing everything in this listing.

Viewings are welcome for all our listings. Please get in touch to arrange a time—we just need to speak with you first and receive valid photo ID before confirming.

If there’s anything you’re unsure about, no matter how small, please ask the owner in the comments section below before placing your bids, as bids cannot be retracted and form a binding contract if you win—just like in a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
23.05.2025 MOT 17,269
13.12.2021 Service & MOT 17,123
08.08.2015 MOT 168,528
Key Details
  • Model Escort Mexico (Mk1)
  • Transmission Manual
  • Reg. Date 11.09.1974
  • CC 1,601
  • Mileage ~17,331 on the clock
  • Colour Olympic Blue
  • Interior Colour Black
  • Interior Trim Leather/Fabric
  • Chassis # BFATPS00326
  • Engine # PS00326
  • Restored Yes
  • MOT Yes Exp. 22.05.2026
  • MOT Exempt Yes
  • Road Tax Exempt Yes
  • HPi Clear Yes
  • Former Keepers 9
  • LHD or RHD RHD
  • Visited Yes
  • Sale Type Private
  • Owned ~3 years
  • Key Feature Lovley restoration
  • Auction ID 2910


    Auction Bidding

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    Current Bid £1,000
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    Auction Ends Thu 17th Jul at 7.10pm
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    1 Comment
    workman
    workman
    13 hours ago

    can you guarantee this is a genuine Escort Mexico?

    MORE COMMENTS MORE COMMENTS

    Insurance Quote


    Average annual insurance premium for a Ford like this is £161 via our trusted partner ClassicLine.
    GET AN INSURANCE QUOTEAnd get 10% off when you mention us.

    *Quote is based on a garaged vehicle in CV32 5QY (Leamington Spa), travelling 3,000 miles per year, 1 driver who is 45 years of age and is free on accidents and convictions – valid Summer 2025.

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    Vehicle Location

    Swadlincote

    Key Bidding Facts

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    A reserve is the minimum price a seller is willing to accept for their vehicle. We work closely with sellers to set realistic reserves that reflect current market values — we don’t take on vehicles with inflated or unrealistic expectations.

    If the reserve isn’t met when the auction ends, we’ll work with the highest bidder to try and agree a deal with the seller.

    Whether the reserve has been met may / may not be disclosed during the auction — just like a traditional auction house. Bidders usually find out if they’ve won only when the auction ends.

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