The History of the Ford Escort

The Ford Escort is one of the most iconic models in the automotive industry, leaving its mark on both roads and motorsport. Launched at the end of the 1960s, the Escort became one of Ford's best-selling models, standing out for its versatility, reliability and, of course, its absolute dominance in rallying. But how did this model become such a legend? Let's find out.

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The birth of Ford Escort

The Ford Escort was launched in 1968, succeeding the Ford Anglia. From the outset, it stood out for its modern design and balanced motorisation options. The first generation, produced until 1975, quickly won over European drivers with its robustness and agile handling.

One of the Escort's great strengths was its ability to adapt to different markets. From economical family versions to sporty variants, it became a choice for all types of drivers.

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Rally domination

If there was one stage where the Ford Escort shone brightly, it was in rallying. Ford quickly realised the model's potential for competition and in 1970, with the Escort RS1600, it began an era of dominance on the world stage. Equipped with the legendary Cosworth BDA engine, the RS1600 demonstrated how rear-wheel drive could be an advantage in rallying.

In the 70s and 80s, versions such as the Escort RS1800 and Escort RS2000 won multiple editions of the World Rally Championship (WRC). Legendary drivers such as Björn Waldegård, Ari Vatanen and Hannu Mikkola helped cement the model's reputation as a true racing machine.

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Generations of the Ford Escort

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Mk1 (1968-1975)- The beginning of a legend, with an emphasis on rally models;

Mk2 (1975-1980)- Refinement of the winning formula, maintaining dominance in rallying;

Mk3 and Mk4 (1980-1990)- Switch to front-wheel drive, birth of the iconic XR3i and the RS Turbo;

Mk5 and Mk6 (1990-2004)- Adaptation to the modern market, with the highlight being the powerful Escort RS Cosworth, one of the most desirable models of the time.

In 2004, Ford decided to discontinue the Escort, replacing it with the Ford Focus, which had already been in production since 1998. Despite its demise, the Escort left an immortal legacy. To this day, it is a model valued by collectors and enthusiasts, especially the sports versions, which continue to feature in classic car competitions and events, such as the Benedita Classic Festival.

What's more, the Escort's influence on rallying lives on. Many of the engineering and performance concepts tested in the Escort were applied to later Ford models, including the Focus RS itself.

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Fun facts about the Ford Escort

• Princess Diana's first car: In the 1980s, Princess Diana drove an Escort, further increasing its popularity in the UK;

• One of Europe's best-selling cars: Over its generations, the Escort has sold more than 20 million units;

• The rear wing of the Escort RS Cosworth: Launched in the 1990s, the RS Cosworth immediately became a classic, especially due to its distinctive rear wing and impressive performance.

The Ford Escort is much more than a car, it's a piece of history, both on the tarmac and on the rally tracks. From the first models to the legendary RS Cosworth, its heritage continues to inspire lovers of the automotive world.

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Translated with DeepL.com