FOR SALE JF Classic Cars are pleased to offer a rare and increasingly hard-to-find 1974 Ford Escort Mk1 Van 6-cwt, With just three previous keepers, this example represents a genuine survivor from an era when the Escort was a cornerstone of British motoring and light commercial life DESCRIPTION The Ford Escort Mk1 was introduced to the UK market at the end of 1967, making its public debut at the Brussels Motor Show in January 1968, where it replaced the long-serving Ford Anglia. The Escort quickly proved itself to be a sales success along with cementing its place in automotive history. The van variant, introduced in April 1968, utilised largely new body panels unique to the commercial model, with the notable exception of the rear doors, which were carried over from the Anglia-based vans. Built for durability and practicality, the Escort Van became a familiar sight in trades, fleets and government service across the UK EXTERNAL This Mk1 Escort Van presents beautifully, retaining straight, uniform body panels exactly as Ford intended. Finished in Ford Marine / Royal Blue (Code G), the paintwork remains bright and glossy front to rear, complementing the van’s simple, purposeful lines The rear barn doors, carried over from the Anglia, operate correctly and are fitted with original chrome door handles. Both front and rear chrome bumpers sit straight, bright and true, while the original headlamps, front indicators and rear light clusters remain fitted a pleasing sign of originality rarely seen on surviving examples along with the legendary full frontal grill External rubbers present free from tarnish and fade along with glazing remaining periord, original and correct along with the lettering to the bonnet and badging to the rear Taken as a whole, the exterior of this Mk1 Ford Escort Van presents as an honest and well-preserved example, retaining the correct proportions, finishes and detailing that define these early light commercials. It carries itself with a genuine period presence, free from over-restoration, and displays a level of originality that is becoming increasingly difficult to find. The straight bodywork, correct trim and sympathetic presentation allow the vehicle’s character and history to speak for themselves, making it an ideal candidate for a collector who values authenticity as highly as appearance. INTERNAL The cabin is refreshingly simple and entirely functional, presenting well for its age. The front seats, permanently fixed to the shell are as per factory specification, trimmed in black vinyl period correct and in very good condition The spare wheel is neatly stowed behind the passenger seat beneath the rear load floor, maintaining practicality and originality. Flooring is in good condition throughout having no rips or tears. The dashboard and controls remain minimal, original and intact, featuring directional heater vents, slider heater controls, windscreen wiper control, pull out choke control and the large twin binnacle housing the speedometer and fuel gauge All push button switches remain original and work as they should, Coloum mounted indicator stalk working fine. The original dashboard and three-spoke steering wheel complete a cabin that remains pleasingly period-correct. The rear load area remains pleasingly in collector grade condition and provides a further indication of how carefully this Escort Van has been treated throughout its life. The loading floor, inner panels and door apertures all present very well ENGINE & TRANSMISSION Under the bonnet sits the correct Ford 1098cc Kent crossflow four-cylinder engine, a simple, robust and time-proven unit that played a key role in Ford’s success throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s. In standard form, as it remains today, the engine produces approximately 55bhp and delivers a smooth, dependable power output well suited to the lightweight 6-cwt Escort Van. The engine bay presents in very good clean condition, original ancilleries displaying preserved and loved previous ownership Fuel is delivered via the correct single-venturi Autolite downdraught carburettor, offering crisp throttle response and reliable cold and warm running. The engine pulls cleanly through the rev range, with no hesitation or undue noise, and remains remarkably tractable in everyday use Mated to the engine is the four-speed all-synchromesh manual gearbox, which selects gears positively and without protest, delivering smooth take-up and progressive acceleration. On the road, the drivetrain feels well balanced and period-correct, offering an engaging and surprisingly lively driving experience that perfectly complements the Escort’s light commercial roots WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES This Escort Van rides on its correct pressed steel 12-inch asymmetrical well-base wheels, an important detail that underlines the originality of this 6-cwt van. Each wheel is finished in period-correct trim and complemented by chrome centre caps, maintaining an authentic factory appearance. The wheels are shod with 145 R12 tyres all round, each displaying even wear and ample remaining tread, contributing to stable and predictable road manners. Braking is handled by a hydraulically operated drum system front and rear, as originally specified for the light commercial Escort. While simple by modern standards, the system is well matched to the vehicle’s modest weight and delivers progressive, confidence-inspiring stopping power when driven as intended. Pedal feel is consistent and reassuring, reflecting correct operation and sympathetic use over its lifetime. Suspension is of traditional Escort Mk1 design, with MacPherson struts and coil springs to the front, combined with telescopic dampers, providing a compliant yet controlled ride. At the rear, a live axle located by semi-elliptic leaf springs delivers durability and load-carrying capability while maintaining the characteristic Escort handling balance. Together, the suspension, steering and braking systems work harmoniously, offering an authentic period driving experience and reinforcing the van’s appeal as a usable and collectible classic HISTORY FILE This Mk1 Escort Van is something rarely encountered today. Its overall presentation is well above average for a commercial vehicle of this era, retaining a high level of originality throughout. The paintwork remains bright and glossy, the engine bays honest and the rear load area is pleasingly clean. The van retains its original VIN plate and correct 6-cwt specification. It was first registered on 20th March 1974 to the British MOD – NAAFI Transport Department, London, a particularly interesting early chapter in its life. In July 1978, it passed to its second owner Mr Edward Hatton, who retained the vehicle for an impressive 28 years until 2006. Ownership then transferred to Mr Fred Smith of Henlow, who has carefully preserved the van, and its now awaiting its next custodian. Accompanying the vehicle the original owner’s manual, complete with lubrication charts and service schedules a rare and delightful inclusion along with historic MOT certificates, various invoices, original keys and v5 registration document. In conclusion, this 1974 Ford Escort Mk1 Van presents a genuinely rare opportunity to secure an increasingly hard-to-find piece of Ford commercial heritage. With just a small number of former custodians, covering just over 79000 miles from new along with a well-documented background and a pleasing, honest presentation throughout, it stands as a highly appealing example in today’s classic market. Whether maintained in its current condition, subtly enhanced to a higher cosmetic standard, or simply enjoyed as a usable and characterful classic, this Escort Van offers considerable appeal to the knowledgeable collector. Vehicles of this type, with such presence and provenance, are seldom encountered and even less frequently offered for sale. A compelling acquisition that would sit confidently within any serious collection of classic Blue Oval vehicles.