- The overhauled Escort weighs just 1,997 lbs and packs a bespoke engine.
- Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder produces 333 hp and 246 lb-ft of torque.
- A Rocket Bunny widebody kit rounds out the heavily modified exterior.
One of the rare Gymkhana cars modified for and driven by Ken Block has surfaced for sale, and it’s the kind of machine that resonates across the collector spectrum. It carries both motorsport pedigree and serious enthusiast appeal. Whether you’re a committed driver like Block was or someone looking for a relatively safe place to park your money, this 1978 Ford Escort makes a compelling case.
The late rally driver and Gymkhana star bought this Escort in 2008 before it was converted to left-hand drive and upgraded for the Gymkhana Grid competition by Quick Motorsport. The compact model now shares very little in common with a road-going Escort and probably provides just about as much fun as you can possibly have on four wheels.
Watch: Ken Block Details His Crazy Ford Escort Gymkhana Car
As part of the transformation, the steel unibody was reworked and fitted with a Rocket Bunny widebody kit, complete with flared arches, a decklid spoiler, and a carbon fiber roof scoop. The side windows were replaced with polycarbonate, and the car was finished in matte black with a US flag across the hood.
Nothing Like An Old-School Escort
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Beneath the skin, the Escort has a fully bespoke rear end with an adjustable sway bar and WRC-style, triangulated, adjustable locating links. It’s also rocking remote-reservoir, three-way adjustable coilovers, and special skid plates. The car tips the scales at just 1,997 lbs (906 kg).
Power comes from a custom-built 2.5-liter four-cylinder by Millington Diamond, featuring 16 valves, independent throttle bodies, and a Cosworth ECU. Output stands at 333 hp and 246 lb-ft (334 Nm), with a 9,000 rpm redline.
Unlike some of Block’s other machines, this Escort sends power to the rear wheels through a Sadev six-speed sequential transmission.
As you’d expect, the cabin has been completely stripped out and includes a pair of Recaro racing seats, a new dashboard, a Sparco steering wheel, and not much else. A signature from Block on the driver’s door panel only further adds to the car’s value.
If you want to get behind the wheel of this very special Ford Escort, head on over to the Bring a Trailer listing before it’s too late.
