It seems as if the roads of the UK were once filled with Mk4 Escorts. You could barely move without falling over them. Then one day, probably due to 2009’s government scrappage scheme, they all just disappeared. What was once a mainstay of our lives is now a genuinely rare and collectible modern classic. Especially in basic ‘L’ trim such as this model (ignore the ‘Ghia’ badge on the back which some wag has stuck on).
Presented here in very fine order, we’re delighted to offer this charming and astonishingly well-preserved original, unmodified car for auction. As the base model, with manual windows and mirrors, a perky little 1.3-litre engine and a manual transmission, it’s about as simple and joyous as motoring gets. Ideal for collectors or anyone wanting to make an impact at this year’s classic car shows, we think this lovely little hatchback is an absolute gem.
The History and Paperwork
First registered in June 1988
Used sparingly by its first owner, an elderly gent who only used it locally
Only four owners from new
Purchased by the vendor about 18 months ago and recommissioned after being in dry storage since about 2009
Just 41,655 miles on the clock – verified by the MOT record
The MOT record indicates the car was SORN from 2009 to 2022
Current MOT to March 2024
Comprehensive history file which includes MOT certificates back to the first MOT in 1991
Some invoices for maintenance and servicing
Complete with the owner’s handbooks
Presented in very original condition with no modifications
Smart black paintwork looks to be in fine fettle overall, with a nice gloss and no marked damage or obvious blemishes other than some stone chips to the bonnet edge
Factory option rear wash/wipe
A previous owner appears to have installed a ‘Ghia’ badge, but this would be easy to remove, should the new owner so wish
All of the bodywork looks to be in nice condition, we didn’t see any corrosion or damage
The car rides on original 13-inch steel wheels, finished with period plastic wheel covers
We’re told by the vendor that a new set of tyres will be fitted prior to sale
Ford branded rubber mud flaps at the front
Underneath, the floors and sills look nice and straight, with no glaring corrosion we could identify
Manual choke (If you’re under 30 – ask your folks)
Service in March 2023 (at 41,650 miles), including: oil, filter, spark plugs, new radiator and coolant, brakes all round, new brake hoses and new brake master cylinder
The engine bay looks neat and tidy, with some light surface corrosion to some components
We’re told by the vendor that the car starts and runs very well, with no issues reported
This adorable and nostalgic survivor would be ideal for anyone looking for a modern classic, or their first classic. Simple to work on, presented in fine condition with low mileage and genuinely rare, we think this has fantastic potential.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
