Here we have something of a surprise package for the fast Ford fans among you – an example of the relatively rare (production was only round 2,500 examples) MKII RS Mexico that’s benefited from a number upgrades.

For example, the wheel arches of its Signal Orange bodywork are filled by a set of Yokohama-shod 7Jx13 Minilite-style alloy wheels and its nose is adorned by a quartet of Cibié auxiliary lights.

However, the major changes lie below the surface, where a 2.0-litre Pinto engine and five-speed gearbox have replaced the original 1.6-litre powerplant and four-speed transmission.

Nor is the engine standard, for the Burton alloy cam cover sits atop a Stage 3 cylinder head that’s fed by a pair of twin-choke Weber carburettors.

The vendor describes ‘NES 68R’ as being in ‘very good but not concours condition’ and is offering it complete with a selection of invoices and some history.

The Ford Escort was launched at the 1968 Brussels Motorshow.

Acutely aware that the Cortina was in t...