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Highlights
- Exceptionally rare - one of only 350 produced with single digits left on the road
- Three owners from new
- The previous owner kept the car for 36 years
- Impressive history file
The Appeal
The Escort has a fondly remembered place in British social history. Not only that but the bestselling MK2 Escort has an important place of Ford's British success, which still resonates with many today. A car designed for the everyman, whether you need pace, practicality or usability, the Escort fulfilled its tasks with ease thanks to its robust engineering and modest running costs. By the time the MK2 made way for the FWD MK3 models in 1981, it was still the country's selling car behind the Cortina.
The very last MK2 estates were given a little extra showroom appeal and kitted out with a generous Ghia-level spec, which included headrests and sports wheels. Sold as the limited edition Huntsman, just 150 examples were available with this unique paint colour and gold body decals. Sold exclusively by Ford dealers in the South-East of the UK, this January 1981 car was bought in 1982 by its second owner, who wasn’t afraid to use it. Having ensured that the car was kept in the best possible condition, he kept it for an astonishing 36 years. The car has retained much of its provenance and it is no exaggeration for us to suggest that this has to be considered one of the very best Huntsman edition Ford Escorts in existence. According to DVLA records, only two of these glamorous cars are left on the road.
The History and Paperwork
- Supplied new by Phoenix of Sutton and registered on 6th January 1981
- MOT to Dec 2023
- V5c present
- 4 previous owners
- Road tax and MOT exempt
- Extensive history file
- Complete MOT certificate history since new
- Handwritten notes documenting work carried out from 1982 to 2018
- All previous tax discs
- Owner handbook wallet
- Class winner at a recent classic car event
- 2 keys
The Interior
- The original interior is in excellent shape
- Cloth upholstery and carpets are in excellent condition
- Seats have been covered for much of their life, hence their superb condition
- Aftermarket seat covers and rubber boot mat
- Headlining and door cards are very clean
- No evidence of dampness
- No discernible wear noted on any of the Interior trim
- Dashboard and controls in excellent condition
- Steering wheel and controls are free of significant damage
- All controls are said to work
- Fire extinguisher fitted
The Exterior
- Must be one of the best Escort Huntsman available
- Show winning body in excellent order and free of damage
- Floorpan, sills, inner wings and engine bay are solid throughout
- Trim, glass, chrome and rubbers are in very good shape
- Ghia trim level spec
- Unique Huntsman red paint has a good lustre and presents beautifully
- Minor paint touch-ups were noted on the front edge of the bonnet
- Gold coach line shows minor wear
- Ford sports wheels in excellent shape with healthy tyres
- Reverse and rear fog lights fitted
- Aftermarket additional passenger door locks fitted with keys
The Mechanics
- Original 1.3-litre engine
- It starts and runs with no issue at all
- Regularly maintained
- No reported issues with the 4-speed gearbox, clutch or braking
- Very clean suspension components and the car is said to drive smoothly
- Exhaust in excellent condition
- Very positive engine presentation
Summary
Any rare car with an avid following practically sells itself, but with the MK2 Escort comes the additional appeal of its legendary heritage. As one of the last RWD Escorts to be produced, credit has to be given to its careful ownership profile which has allowed this Huntsman edition to survive in such a remarkable condition. An exceptionally rare opportunity to obtain one of the scarcest Ford Escorts ever produced.
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