150 new Ford Escort MK1s are being built, but will you pay the price?

Located in the United Kingdom, Boreham Motorworks has officially unveiled its plans to produce a limited run of 150 reimagined Ford Escort Mk1 vehicles, known as 'Continumod' cars. The production is scheduled to commence in late 2025, with the order books now open for potential buyers who are prepared to pay a starting price of £295,000. This initiative marks a significant revival of the iconic Escort model, which is recognized for its historical significance and performance in the automotive world. As an official brand license partner of Ford Motor Company, Boreham has ensured that its high-performance variants will carry both the Escort name and the Ford badge, making these cars uniquely desirable for collectors and enthusiasts alike. The new Escort Mk1 is designed to be 'blueprint-accurate and period-sympathetic' to the original, effectively merging classic aesthetics with modern engineering advancements. Boreham Motorworks plans to offer two options for the engines: a reimagined four-cylinder 1.8-liter unit producing 182bhp and a more powerful 2.1-liter motorsport engine that generates an impressive 295bhp. Importantly, these cars will not utilize 'donor' original Escorts but will be built entirely new, with Ford-approved continuation chassis numbers that enhance their rarity in the market. To deliver a driving experience reminiscent of the classic Mk1 Escort, Boreham has purposely omitted certain modern features, such as power steering, anti-lock brakes, and traction control. This decision aims to preserve the raw driving experience that made the RS Escorts legendary among car enthusiasts. The design team, led by Wayne Burgess, has focused on simplicity, stripping away unnecessary ornamentation to capture the essential form of the original vehicles. The internal layout maintains a vintage style while incorporating modern practicality, featuring a compact instrument panel, heated screens, and air conditioning. The launch of this limited edition model comes at a time when collectors are keen to invest in unique automotive pieces, especially ones with rich racing heritage. Given the staggering price tag and limited production run, the Mk1 Escort is likely to become a highly coveted item on the market. However, there is skepticism; a similar model that underwent significant restoration recently failed to meet its reserve price at auction, highlighting the risks involved in high-priced automotive investments. Prospective buyers are expected to inspect the vehicle next summer, just before the production phase begins, making this a pivotal moment for fans of classic motorsport and automotive design.