Ford Escort Mk1
The 'dogbone' grille icon that brought modern handling and motorsport success to the masses.
- Power
- 52 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 15.8 s
- Top speed
- 84 mph
- Est. value
- $8k–$25k
About the Ford Escort Mk1
Launched at the Brussels Motor Show in January 1968, the Mk1 Escort replaced the ageing Anglia and became an instant sales phenomenon. The 1.3-litre 'Kent' crossflow engine provided a significant performance boost over the base 1.1-litre model, making it a capable family car for the era. Its rack-and-pinion steering and MacPherson strut front suspension gave it class-leading handling, which formed the basis for its legendary rallying pedigree. Today, even non-sporting Mk1 Escorts are highly sought after by collectors for their simple mechanics and iconic 'coke-bottle' styling.
Ford Escort Mk1 specs
The Ford Escort Mk1 produces 52 bhp (39 kW) and 92 Nm (68 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 15.8 seconds and has a top speed of 84 mph (135 km/h).
| Make | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | Escort |
| Generation | Mk1 |
| Trim | 1.3 |
| Years | 1967–1975 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Engine | 1.3-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,298 cc (1.3 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 52 bhp (39 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 92 Nm (68 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 15.8 s |
| Top speed | 84 mph (135 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 785 kg (1,731 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 66 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Ford Escort Mk1 worth?
A typical Ford Escort Mk1 is estimated to be worth $8,000 – $25,000 (about £6,000 – £19,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Ford Escort Mk1 rarity in CarSpot
The Ford Escort Mk1 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Ford Escort Mk1 fun facts
- The Mk1 Escort earned the nickname 'dogbone' due to the distinctive shape of its front grille and headlight surround on higher-specification models.
- While the 1.3 was a family car, the same basic chassis and engine architecture went on to dominate international rallying in RS1600 and Mexico forms.
- The Escort was the first passenger car to be developed by the newly formed Ford of Europe, merging the efforts of Ford's British and German divisions.
