A charming and increasingly scarce example of the ever-popular Ford Escort, this 1988 1.6 CL presents as an honest and highly original classic with continental provenance. Supplied new by Ford Dunkerque in 1988 and imported into the UK from France in 2021, this left-hand drive example offers something a little different from the typical UK-supplied cars and is further enhanced by its good presentation.
The vehicle has benefitted from recent mechanical attention including new rear wheel cylinders, a full brake service and new front tyres. Having stored while still receiving regular MOTs, it has clearly been cared for with diligence. It is now offered with a current MOT showing no advisories, providing additional reassurance to prospective buyers.
First registered in 1988, this Escort was supplied new by Ford Dunkerque and spent much of its life in France before being imported into the UK in 2021. It is accompanied by a particularly appealing history file including old MOT certificates - some originating from its time in France. The original French owner’s handbook is also present, complete with period maps, adding to the car’s originality and charm. Now supplied on UK registration plates, the car also retains its original French plates, which are included with the vehicle for continuity and provenance.
The Ford Escort Mk4 continued the immense success of its predecessors, offering practical, reliable motoring with wide appeal. The 1.6 CL variant provided a balanced blend of performance and economy, making it a popular everyday choice in period. Today, surviving examples - especially those with strong originality - are becoming increasingly hard to find, with left-hand drive examples offering additional appeal for European touring or collectors seeking something a little different.
With classic Fords enjoying strong and sustained demand, this Escort represents a rare opportunity. Its French-market, left-hand drive configuration, known supplying dealer, comprehensive history file and advisory-free MOT make it a standout example - ideal for collectors seeking originality or enthusiasts wanting a usable, characterful classic.