FORD ESCORT MkI

Each week we share our top tips on tempting buys in our classifieds. This week, how to find the best Escort MkI

WATCH OUT FOR CORROSION

Check the inner and outer surfaces of the sills carefully for any signs of rot. The floor pans corrode where they meet the front footwell panels, and also where they meet the inner rear wheelarches; lift the carpets and seat cushion to check this properly. Underneath the car, examine the chassis rails that run from front to rear; the area just inboard of the rear wheels is particularly problematic. The RS1600 and Mexico have thicker chassis rails, but these are just as prone to corrosion.

HOW ARE THE PANELS?

Major body panels have been rare since the early 1990s, and are still not easy to come by, even at marque-specific autojumbles. So although structural corrosion is ultimately more serious, you need to assess whether the outer panels can be repaired. Front wings rust above the headlights (the wings are welded on, by the way); rear wheel arches will rot and the double-skinned leading edge of the bonnet goes. Door bottoms are another problem area.

CHECK THE ENGINE’S HEALTH

The Crossflow engines in the ‘cooking’ Escorts are pretty long-lived and straightforward to work on. Signs of wear include crankshaft rattles and fumes from the breather, but engines will soldier on for many miles in this condition. The Mexico’s OHV Kent engine will become smoky and noisy when worn, but again it’s a tough engine that’s eminently fixable. The BDA and Twin Cam engines are in a different league, though; you’ll need a professional to shim the valve clearances and major engine overhauls will be expensive.

INSPECT THE INTERIOR

If there are problems with the interior trim of an everyday model, there’s still a chance that you’ll be able to find serviceable replacement items at your local autojumble. Don’t expect the same ready availability with one of the harder core sporting models, though. Some interior trim items may have been remanufactured over the years, but you might just have to settle for what’s in the car.