Full Description
SORRY NOW SOLD – SIMILAR WANTED
An unrestored Ford Escort Mk2 1600 Sport with just 11,886 miles from new.
EQUIPMENT
Halogen headlamps, auxiliary driving lamps, safety glass all round, anti-burst locks, black front air dam, unique bodyside and bonnet coachline treatment, ‘1600 Sport’ script, black finish window surrounds, black drip rail, black door mirrors, laminated windscreen, simulated leather covered sports steering wheel, reclining front seats, front head restraints, centre console incorporating clock, hazard warning flashers, heated rear window, tachometer, padded sun visors, two-speed heater, aeroflow ventilation with eye ball vents.
EXTERIOR
Using English shells from the Halewood Plant in Merseyside, this Mk2 Escort 1600 Sport was assembled by The Ford Motor Company of South Africa (Pty) Ltd in Silverton, SA. This one owner from new low mileage example is simply incredible having been preserved in a completely original unrestored state. The factory applied Diamond White (code OW) paintwork has never been renewed or refreshed and has remained in remarkable order with a bright uniform finish. Structurally perfect owing to a lifetime in a warmer climate, the factory panels are completely free from corrosion and all fit and shuts lines are excellent. Minor markings commensurate with the vehicles age and unrestored nature are very minimal but noteworthy of mention are two small dings on each door and two tiny areas of overzealous polishing to the rear quarter and roof edge. These imperfections pale into insignificance compared with the cars overall presentation and have remained untreated in order to retain absolute originality. All trims sections are intact as are the original 1600 Sport badges and decals, and the factory glass is number plate etched on every piece. Microdot security treatment has been applied discreetly on a number of components to protect the car. Having covered an amazing mere 11,886 miles from new, this rare example is hugely desirable to any enthusiast wanting to appreciate the ultimate unmolested sporting Mk2 Escort.
INTERIOR
The truly exceptional interior of this example has remained in wonderful near perfect order. Clearly displaying is very low mileage credentials, the original Cadiz Striped Fabric seats in Tan (code OY) are spotlessly clean and wear free with no sagging, splits or tears. The original black loop pile carpeting, headlining and matching tan door cards are pristine. Only a tiny section of lift to the vinyl on the dash top is visible upon very close inspection. All functions controls and gauges operate seamlessly as does the dealer fitted Sharp Z-2300 MkI stereo unit. Tiny chips to the paintwork on the upper painted section of the driver’s door are no doubt courtesy of jewellery and keys in hand, but do not offend. The original faux leather trimmed steering wheel is free from wear and displays the natural veins to the coverings, found only on examples of minimal use. Often used too liberally, the term ‘time warp’ is unquestionably justified and will delight any occupant. Amazing.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
The 1600GT OHV engine with twin venturi carburettor and automatic choke produces 84bhp at 5500rpm and torque figures of 124Nm. A top speed of 101mph and 0-60 in 11 seconds are delivered by this mid-level sporting Escort. Starting from cold is effortless with one depress of the accelerator, a quick turn of the key and the engine immediately fires ready to deliver quiet and willing performance, exactly as Ford intended. Perfectly matched to the engine characteristics, the four speed close ratio gearbox offers precise short shift changes. A hugely entertaining and nostalgic driving experience.
WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
Five original sports road wheels still wear the factory applied paint and are in remarkable order. Minor markings again have been left untreated so as not to spoil the originality and the black in-fills and centre caps are exactly as they left the factory. Quality 175/70 R13 tyres have masses of tread remaining and the spare is shod in the original Dunlop item. Servo assisted front disc and rear drum brakes bring the car up in a straight line and offer adequate stopping power.
HISTORY FILE
This original one owner South African Ford Escort 1600 Sport was supplied new on 14th September 1979 by Ford Main Agent Nagington Motors Ltd in Benoni, SA. The first and only keeper being a Mrs M Hillbrook who kept the car incredibly for 34 years covering a mere 11,886 miles (19,129Km on the odometer). An original new car sales invoice made out to Mrs Hillbrook documents a purchase price of 4,615.06 Rand. Upon her passing and knowing how much the beloved Escort meant to his mother, Mr David Hillbrook decided to have the car imported in October 2014 to the UK where he is based. All import duties and levies are settled and the car is UK registered.
The history file further consists of many RSA yearly license disc documents, the original handbook and service book containing stamped entries to support the mileage. Upon arrival at KGF Classic Cars, a full re-commissioning program and preparation for UK MOT was instructed to include a full service including renewal of all fluids and oils, fuel line flush, new battery, replacement of factory original perished tyres as well as an Approved Used Car Check.
KGF Classic Cars now have the hugely privileged task of bringing this very special and rare 1600 Sport to market ready for the next discerning enthusiast to appreciate and preserve.
HPI Clear.
