Welsh-based MST Cars, known for reviving classic vehicles with a modern twist, has announced the return of the Ford Escort in a new form: the MST Sports. This announcement comes as the company continues to build its reputation for crafting bespoke versions of the iconic car, despite not officially using the Escort name. The MST Sports is inspired by the Escort Mexico, a model that gained fame in the late 1960s and early 1970s rally circuits.
The new model will be limited to just 50 units, split evenly between the Mk1 and Mk2 versions. This exclusivity, combined with limited customization options, positions the MST Sports as a collector’s item. Buyers will have the choice of nearly a dozen color combinations, each featuring distinctive side stripes at hip or shoulder height. The car’s design pays homage to the narrow wheel-arched Escorts that were synonymous with rallying success during their heyday.
Engineering and Performance
The MST Sports is equipped with MST’s ‘Group 1’ suspension system, complete with adjustable dampers and four-piston brake calipers. These components are housed within 13-inch four-spoke alloy wheels, ensuring both performance and aesthetic appeal. Under the hood, a 2.0-litre four-cylinder twin-cam engine delivers approximately 134kW, with power transmitted to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission.
Inside, the vehicle maintains a minimalist yet refined approach. It features two sports seats and a rear luggage area, complemented by a suede sports steering wheel and high-quality gauges. This combination of simplicity and style is designed to appeal to purists and enthusiasts alike.
Market Position and Pricing
Pricing for the MST Sports starts at £74,500 before taxes, equivalent to approximately $152,000. The first units are expected to be produced in 2026, with the Mk1 models debuting ahead of the Mk2. This development follows the recent trend of reviving classic cars with modern engineering, a niche market that has seen increasing interest among collectors and car enthusiasts.
Meanwhile, MST Cars is not the only company tapping into the nostalgia for the Ford Escort. Boreham Motorworks, another British firm, has also reintroduced the Escort Mk1 RS, sanctioned by the original manufacturer. Boreham’s version is even more exclusive, with only 150 units planned, each priced from £295,000 (A$605,000).
Historical Significance and Industry Impact
The original Escort Mexico was named after the 1970 London to Mexico World Cup Rally, a grueling event that the car famously won, cementing its place in automotive history. The revival of such models not only celebrates this legacy but also highlights the enduring appeal of classic car designs in modern automotive culture.
According to industry experts, the resurgence of interest in vintage models like the Escort is partly driven by a desire for simpler, more engaging driving experiences. As electric and autonomous vehicles become more prevalent, the tactile and mechanical nature of classic cars offers a distinct contrast.
“The demand for classic cars with modern reliability is growing, as enthusiasts seek vehicles that offer both nostalgia and performance,” said an automotive industry analyst.
Looking Ahead
The reintroduction of the Ford Escort by MST Cars and Boreham Motorworks represents a broader trend within the automotive industry, where heritage and innovation intersect. As these companies continue to push the boundaries of classic car restoration, they pave the way for future projects that blend historical significance with contemporary engineering.
As the first MST Sports models begin production, the automotive community will be watching closely to see how these modernized classics perform both on the road and in the marketplace. The success of such ventures could inspire further revivals of iconic models, ensuring that the legacy of these beloved vehicles endures for generations to come.
