MODIFYING GUIDE MK2 ESCORT

Where would we be without the Mk2 Escort? Would we all be driving Datsuns? Would rally fans worship at the snout of Vauxhall Chevettes? Would Classic Ford be a very different magazine? For four decades, the modified Ford world has had the rear-wheel-drive Escort at its core, and it’s the Mk2 that’s maintained its popularity — and world-leading motorsport success — to this day.

The second-generation Escort has something for everyone: whether a usable classic, a cool custom or a fire-spitting monster, a Mk2 is fabulous to drive and a joy to behold. It’s also probably the most tuneable Ford of all.

But where do you start? You’ll want it to be faster, safer, stop better and look smarter. Perhaps you’re intent on going sideways or simply need to make it more driveable to shows. Essentially, you just want to enjoy your Escort.

But there’s a catch. Building a full-spec Group 4-type Mk2 could set you back £100,000. And it could be you’ve spent your budget on buying the car. You might even want to put it back to standard one day.

So with savvy shopping — and