MK1 Ford Escort Racecar: A Vintage Racer Revived

Heart of a Champion: The 1600 Kent Engine
Under the hood, the 1600 Kent engine roars to life with the kind of power that gets your adrenaline pumping. This isn’t just any engine – it’s been meticulously dressed up with Burton parts, giving it both a performance boost and a sleek, polished look. The fresh engine build means it’s as reliable as they come, running like a train and ready to dominate the track.

Transmission and Differential
Shifting through gears is a breeze thanks to the Type 9 Ford Manual 5-speed gearbox. Precision and responsiveness are the name of the game here. Paired with a Borgwarner 4:1:1 locked differential, this setup ensures you get maximum traction and control, no matter how hard you push it.

Breathing Easy and Staying Cool
This beast breathes through a pair of Weber carburetors, optimizing the air-fuel mixture for peak performance. Keeping everything cool is an aluminum radiator with electric fans – essential for those intense racing conditions. The upgraded fuel system, featuring a fuel regulator and a fuel cell, ensures that the engine is constantly fed with the juice it needs.

Braking and Handling
When it comes to stopping power, this Escort is top of the line. Big disc brakes on both the front and rear provide the confidence to brake late and hard. The Minilite wheels wrapped in semi-slick tires offer incredible grip, ensuring that every turn is tackled with precision. With pK pulleys and belts, you’re guaranteed smooth and efficient power delivery every time.

Safety and Interior
Inside, the focus is on safety and performance. Cobra racing seats and 4-point harnesses keep you secure, letting you focus on the thrill of the race. The interior retains its classic charm but is outfitted with all the necessary modern racing upgrades to keep you safe and comfortable.

Papers and Roadworthiness
Here’s the kicker – this racecar comes with papers and is roadworthy. That’s right, you can take this beast from the track to the streets, turning heads and dropping jaws wherever you go.

Final Thoughts
This MK1 Ford Escort Racecar is a stunning blend of vintage appeal and modern performance. With a fresh engine build, locked differential, upgraded transmission, and comprehensive racing modifications, it’s a testament to the enduring legacy of the Escort in motorsport. Whether you’re on the road or the track, this Escort promises an exhilarating driving experience that’s hard to beat.

Photos by Jan van er Walt. Available from Wat Swaai jy!