Charlie Powell – 1978 Ford Escort 1300 Sport

Code-named ‘Brenda’, the Mk 2 Escort made its debut in 1974 and remained in production until 1980. The Sport was ideal for those after a livelier driving experience, and this now-rare example has been with its owner for 36 years.

“It was bought locally from a lady who had owned it from new, and as I couldn’t afford an RS or Mexico model this was the next best thing. That was in 1988 and I drove it until the end of the year when the MOT ran out.”

Borrowed by his mother at one point when it sustained some crash damage, it was parked up in his parent’s garage which is where it remained until recently. Charlie says that he always meant to restore the car but life got in the way, but with his son showing plenty of interest in the classic Ford they now plan to restore it together.

In fact, work will start soon after its appearance at the show and the owner has already begun collecting some body panels and interior trim. It’s lengthy lay-up means the bodyshell is suffering from corrosion, so that will be the first thing to tackle, but Charlie adds that he will leave the re-painting in original Jupiter Red to a professional.

Apart from the addition of RS alloy wheels, the Escort is completely original and will be a great starting point for the restoration project. It’s clear that plenty of work lies ahead, and it probably won’t be back on the road for a couple of years, but the enthusiastic father and son can’t wait to get started.

A few decades have passed since this terrific Ford was being driven and enjoyed, but we look forward to seeing it completed. Perhaps visitors will see it again at a future show…