1968 FORD ESCORT 1600 GT

Manual | 60,000 miles | Petrol | BLUE MINK

£49,995

1968 FORD ESCORT MK1 1600 GT ? TYPE 48 SHELL ? AOO 771G ? CONCOURS RESTORATION

Wharfspeed Classic & Collectable Cars are delighted to offer this truly exceptional 1968 Ford Escort Mk1 1600 GT, finished in the stunning and period Blue Mink.

This is not just another Mk1 Escort. AOO 771G is a highly significant early Escort, built on the desirable Type 48 shell and believed to have Ford Works associations through its distinctive ?AOO? registration. Genuine Mk1 1600 GTs are now incredibly scarce, making this a rare opportunity to acquire one of Ford?s most sought-after sporting Escorts.

Showing just 62,000 miles and presented in outstanding condition throughout, this Escort has recently undergone a concours-level restoration by renowned Ford specialist Tony Collins of Classic & Custom of Kent, with restoration costs reportedly exceeding £60,000. The result is a car that presents beautifully and is a true credit to its previous custodian.

According to previous research and documentation, the vehicle was supplied new in 1968 and is understood to have been owned by just three owners, with one owner retaining the car for approximately 45 years.

Specification & Features

* Genuine 1968 Ford Escort Mk1 1600 GT
* Early Type 48 bodyshell
* Blue Mink paintwork
* Registration AOO 771G
* 62,000 miles
* Concours-level restoration
* Ford Works-associated registration
* GT interior and instrumentation
* 140mph speedometer and 7,000rpm rev counter
* Correct GT badging
* Manual transmission

Engine & Performance

This Escort benefits from period-correct performance upgrades believed to have been fitted during its lifetime, including:

* Stage 3 1600cc Crossflow engine
* Weber 28/36 carburettor
* Four-branch exhaust manifold
* Modified cylinder head and camshaft
* Lightened and balanced flywheel
* Twin Cam specification radiator
* Uprated suspension components
* Strengthened rear suspension setup

These enhancements provide a driving experience that perfectly captures the spirit of Ford?s competition heritage whilst retaining the character and charm of the original 1600 GT.

History

The Escort was reportedly preserved for many years with Waxoyl protection and remained remarkably original before undergoing its extensive restoration. Research carried out on the vehicle suggests it may be one of only a handful of factory 1600 GT examples carrying such significant provenance.

Today, it presents in superb condition throughout, with excellent bodywork, paintwork, interior and engine bay. It is a car that will appeal equally to collectors, Ford enthusiasts and investors alike.

A genuine Mk1 Escort GT is a rare sight today. A Type 48 shell example with this level of restoration, provenance and presentation is rarer still.

Summary

If you are looking for the finest Mk1 Escort 1600 GT available, this deserves your attention. A beautiful example with fascinating history, concours presentation and genuine collector appeal. Surely a future show winner.