1980 Ford Escort MkII – Today’s Tempter

By: Alex Affat, Unique Cars magazine

Date: 02.11.2020

Complete and affordable MkII Escort: all hard work done, no rust, lots of spares

Ford Escorts have long been popular classics, in both MkI and MkII form. For most enthusiasts, it’s the sporty RS-badged models that are most desired but there is plenty of interest in all variants.

Visually, the new MkII’s lines were smoothed over with a European style that many buyers preferred over the burgeoning offerings from Japan. The cabin too was functional, but perhaps a bit spartan in lower-spec models compared to the Japanese cars of the time.

Around 79,000 MkII Eskies were produced locally, with a variety of four-cylinders available: 1.3lt, 1.6lt and 2.0lt. Transmission options comprised of a four-speed manual or three-speed auto.

It’s the 2.0lt Pinto engine that’s the one to have. Over the decades since the Escort’s release, countless owners have discovered the Escort’s sporting and dynamic prowess, testaments shown by how many of them are still competing against far more modern machinery.

This one comes to market with a lot of work carried out, and looks like a fantastic weekend toy and even occasional track car.

Fitted with the 2.0lt four-cylinder and four-speed manual; the car comes with a restored engine bay, no rust, new front and rear screen rubbers, new engine mounts, mild cam, ceramic coated headers, new water pump and thermostat, new alternator, and new carpets and underlay inside.

The car is 99% complete (except for an interior light) and is in fine driving condition.

The sellers state that its new owner could improve the vehicle in a few areas, including: seat upholstery, dash retrim, source an interior light, and a new muffler.

For an affordable entry-level project with all of the hard yards done, the Eskie looks like an attractive weekend project for $15,000.

You can find the car based in Queensland, and view the full listing here!

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