Ford Escort Mk2
The quintessential British family saloon that conquered the rally world.
- Power
- 57 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 15.8 s
- Top speed
- 91 mph
- Est. value
- $7k–$22k
About the Ford Escort Mk2
The Mk2 Ford Escort, codenamed 'Brenda' during development, refined the formula of its predecessor with a more squared-off aesthetic and improved interior ergonomics. While the 1.3 L was a mainstream family variant, it shared the same lightweight, rear-wheel-drive chassis that made the RS models legendary in international rallying. Its simple overhead-valve Crossflow engine and MacPherson strut suspension provided a balance of reliability and surprisingly engaging handling. Today, even base-trim Mk2s are highly prized by collectors for their mechanical simplicity and the vast ecosystem of period-correct performance upgrades available.
Ford Escort Mk2 specs
The Ford Escort Mk2 produces 57 bhp (43 kW) and 92 Nm (68 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 15.8 seconds and has a top speed of 91 mph (146 km/h).
| Make | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | Escort |
| Generation | Mk2 |
| Trim | 1.3 L |
| Years | 1974–1980 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Engine | 1.3-litre Crossflow inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,298 cc (1.3 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 57 bhp (43 kW) at 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 92 Nm (68 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 15.8 s |
| Top speed | 91 mph (146 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 878 kg (1,936 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 65 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 Mk2 worth?
A typical Ford Escort Mk2 is estimated to be worth $6,500 – $22,000 (about £4,800 – £16,000).
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 Mk2 rarity in CarSpot
The Ford Escort Mk2 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 21 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 Mk2 fun facts
- The Mk2 Escort was a joint project between Ford of Britain and Ford of Germany, though the majority of UK cars were built at the Halewood plant.
- Despite its humble appearance, the 1.3 L uses the same basic bodyshell that helped the Escort win the World Rally Championship manufacturers' title in 1979.
- The 'L' in the trim name stood for 'Luxury', though by modern standards it was a mid-range specification sitting above the base 'Popular' model.
