A Legend Reimagined

While the Ford Escort may be viewed as an ordinary economy car in the United States, its reputation in Europe is vastly different. It stands as a genuine icon of motorsport history. Capitalizing on this rich legacy, the British racing specialists at MST Cars Ltd have unveiled their latest project: the MST MK1 Evo.

The McRae Connection

At first glance, the vehicle appears to be a track-focused restomod, but its engineering roots run much deeper than its aesthetic suggests. The most significant feature of the MK1 Evo is its custom-engineered multi-link rear suspension system. According to the company, this setup incorporates developmental work from the late rally legend Colin McRae, who assisted with the design and testing of the geometry prior to his death in 2007. MST has spent years refining this technology, which now features high-performance Reiger shocks built to World Rally Championship standards.

Modern Engineering in a Classic Shell

The MK1 Evo is more than just a restoration; it is a ground-up build. MST utilizes a brand-new Mark I Escort body shell, which receives a DVLA-registered VIN and chassis number, making it a legal, factory-fresh vehicle by British standards. To enhance performance, the build includes:

  • Carbon fiber body panels to reduce overall weight.
  • Adjustable Bilstein coilovers and specialized front/rear arms for precise camber and castor tuning.
  • An high-performance AP-racing brake system.
  • Optional electronically controlled suspension setups provided by Tractive.

Powertrain and Performance

Beneath the hood lies a Millington Diamond naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine, available in 2.7-liter or 2.8-liter displacements. The smaller unit produces approximately 330 horsepower, while the larger configuration pushes output to at least 360 horsepower. This power is managed through a WRC-spec limited-slip differential and a choice between a Tractive six-speed sequential or a standard manual gearbox.

Pricing and Availability

Given the level of engineering and bespoke customization involved, the MK1 Evo is positioned in the supercar price bracket. The program starts at approximately £195,000, or roughly $260,000 USD. For collectors and club racing enthusiasts, this vehicle offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of rally-inspired history blended with modern performance capabilities.