The 1972 Ford Escort Mexico is the ultimate homologation hero. Built by Ford's Advanced Vehicle Operations at Aveley to celebrate the Escort's dominant 1-2-3 finish on the 1970 London to Mexico World Cup Rally, the Mexico paired the lightweight two-door shell with the 86bhp 1600cc Kent crossflow, uprated suspension, and full RS instrumentation. It remains one of the most collectible and usable of all fast Fords.

This exceptional 1972 Mk. I Mexico is finished in its correct and most iconic colour combination of Daytona Yellow with black Mexico side stripes and tail panel is set apart by its outstanding originality and integrity. Whilst the subject of a high-quality sympathetic repaint in its original colour, this Escort retains all its original factory steel panels, a rarity today where many have been extensively repaired or re-shelled. The underside, inner wings, boot floor and all factory spot welds remain honest and correct. The interior is a wonderfully preserved, time warp example retaining its original black Ambla low-back seats, original door cards, headlining, RS three-spoke steering wheel and correct six-dial dash with working gauges. Most notably, it still retains its original factory rubber floor mats, almost always lost to carpet conversions and a real mark of a genuine car. Under the bonnet is equally impressive. The engine bay is beautifully detailed and presented in factory correct finishes, housing the correct 1600cc crossflow with original style airbox, carburettor and ancillaries. It is an engine bay that would stand up to close scrutiny at any AVO concours.

This is a low mileage, cherished example that has been rightly recognised by the marque experts, having been featured as the cover car on the AVO Owners Club Magazine. A copy of the magazine accompanies the car. This is a highly collectible, investment-grade Mk. I fast Ford that is ready to be shown at AVO gatherings or enjoyed on the road as Ford intended. Presented to auction with a V5 registration document, a history file and copy of AVO Owners Magazine cover feature. Consigned by Dominic Lake

Lot details
Year: 1972
Make: Ford
Model: Escort Mexico
Registration: NPC 445L
Chassis No: BFATMC07955
Odometer: 34,000

* All original panels
* Low mileage example
* Impeccable condition