It seems, as the saying goes, old Fords will never die. This week ReallyMeanSounds.com learned that a leading car dismantler from Northern Ireland has begun importing brand new, reproduction shells for the Ford Escort Mark II. Yes, that trusty, but often rusty stalwart of the classic car scene has been given a life life as a whole host of pristine body panels become available.
The company, Higgins Car Dismantlers, have sourced a company in China to supply not just new Mark II shells, but also boots, wings, doors and bonnets. Basically, near enough everything needed to build a new car. The enduring popularity of the Ford Escort, coupled with a dwindling supply of news bits had meant that second hand shells and panels commanded a premium price. However, this new supply has opened up a world of possibility to owners keen to breathe new life into their old Ford.
It’s slightly surreal seeing new shells for a car that went out of production over 30 years ago. However, the concept itself is not new. British Heritage have been producing shells for Minis, MGBs, Sprites and Midgets for a number of years now. In many ways, it surprising it’s taken so long to see an iconic car like the Ford Escort Mark II benefit from the same treatment.
As the technology and knowhow clearly exists, the question is – what car next?