Description
25th May, 2024 10:00
The May 2024 Auction
1972 Ford Escort 1300 L
Charming 2-door Escort used in TV and film
Estimate
£6, 000 - £7, 000
Buyer's premium: 15. 00%
Lot details
Registration: RWA840L
Chassis: BBATML33556
Odometer: 39, 000
Transmission: Manual
MOT: Exempt
Rare 2-door Escort Mk1
Desirable 6J wheels
Converted to resemble a Police Car in the 1980s
Used for TV and film work
Only 4 former keepers
The Ford Escort Mk1 stands as a testament to Ford's commitment to producing practical yet engaging vehicles. Introduced in 1968, it quickly became a staple on roads worldwide, praised for its versatility and reliability. Its design, penned by the legendary Roy Haynes, exuded a timeless charm, blending sleek lines with functional simplicity. The Mk1 was available in various body styles, from the practical estate to the sporty RS2000, catering to a wide range of drivers. Its success in motorsport, particularly in rallying, further cemented its reputation for performance and durability. Despite evolving tastes and advancements in automotive technology, the Mk1's legacy endures, revered by enthusiasts for its role in shaping the compact car segment and for its enduring appeal as a classic icon of motoring history.
We are pleased to offer this 1972 Ford Escort 1300 L presented in Police livery with cream cloth seats. First registered in November 1972, the car was originally supplied in Fern Green. Little is known of its early history but it is believed to have been purchased by a lady called Susan who transformed it into a Police Car replica for TV and film use. The Police livery certainly makes the little Escort a very “arresting” sight and it would be “criminal” not to raise a smile when you see it. (Sorry, enough dodgy puns…) The vendor tells us that the illuminated sign and flashing light do work although we haven’t tested this. There is also a dummy CB radio unit inside to complete the theme. Not specifically Police-related but contributing to the cool look, other modifications include bullet-style mirrors, wider 6J wheels and gas struts at the rear. We are advised by the vendor that the car benefits from a new set of Nexen tyres.
The paint has not been done to a high standard and there are several areas of corrosion around the body which could be addressed to take the car to the next level but it remains perfectly presentable and others may be happy to leave as is and just enjoy the car. Inside, the dash presents nicely but the seat fabric is quite worn in a number of areas and it would benefit from a retrim. We would always recommend you come and see the car at our purpose-built facility in Cheshire to satisfy yourself as to the condition.
The little Escort starts smartly with just a little choke, runs and drives. It comes with V5C, old MOT, old advert and purchase receipt, some stills from a TV / film appearance and an owner handbook.
There are two clear ways to go with this car - enjoy it as is, complete with Police livery and take it to shows, weddings or even more film work, or restore it to create your own 2-door Mk1 exactly how you want it. There’s no right or wrong answer and whichever route you choose, we expect you’ll have tons of fun.
