The Ford Escort Mexico, introduced in the early 1970s, is one of the most iconic performance cars ever produced by Ford UK. Built to celebrate Ford’s victory in the 1970 London to Mexico World Cup Rally, the Escort Mexico quickly gained a reputation for being rugged, lightweight, and fun to drive — especially for motorsport enthusiasts.
1. History and Background
The Escort Mexico was born from motorsport heritage. After the Mk1 Escort RS1600 dominated the grueling London to Mexico Rally in 1970, Ford launched the “Mexico” variant as a more affordable, road-legal version for enthusiasts.
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Produced by: Ford’s Advanced Vehicle Operations (AVO)
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Production years: 1970–1974
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Platform: Mk1 Escort
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Naming: A tribute to the 1970 rally win
The car struck a balance between the high-performance RS1600 and the more basic models, offering a performance package that was durable and reliable without breaking the bank.
2. Performance and Engine
2.1 Engine Specs
The Escort Mexico came with a 1.6-liter Kent crossflow inline-4 engine, producing around 86 horsepower. It may not sound like much by today’s standards, but the car’s light weight — around 870 kg (1,918 lbs) — made it incredibly agile and responsive.
2.2 Driving Experience
The real charm of the Escort Mexico lies in its pure, analog driving feel. With rear-wheel drive, a manual 4-speed gearbox, and no driver aids, it delivers a raw, connected experience that modern cars often lack. The car was a favorite for amateur rally drivers due to its:
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Tight chassis
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Responsive throttle
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Predictable handling in corners
3. Design and Interior
3.1 Exterior Styling
The Mexico featured the classic Mk1 Escort body with subtle sporty touches:
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Unique “Mexico” decals
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Flared wheel arches
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RS-style front end
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Steel sports wheels
It had a purposeful, rally-ready look without being over-the-top.
3.2 Interior Simplicity
Inside, the Mexico was simple but functional:
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Bucket seats for improved support
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Three-spoke steering wheel
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Minimalist dash
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No luxury — just driver-focused ergonomics
The interior emphasized function over frills, consistent with the car’s motorsport roots.
4. Legacy and Collectibility
4.1 A Cult Classic
The Ford Escort Mexico is now a highly sought-after collector’s car, particularly in the UK and among rally fans worldwide. Original, unmodified examples are rare and can command high prices at auctions.
4.2 Rallying Influence
Even decades later, the Mexico’s DNA lives on in Ford’s motorsport legacy. It inspired generations of rally cars and remains a favorite in historic racing circles.
5. Final Verdict: Why the Escort Mexico Still Matters
The Ford Escort Mexico is a perfect example of what happens when racing heritage meets everyday practicality. It may not be the fastest or flashiest car, but it represents an era when driving was about engagement, not electronics. Whether you’re a classic car collector or a fan of motorsport history, the Mexico is a must-know machine that holds a special place in the performance car hall of fame.