1981 Ford Escort

January 1975 saw the introduction of the Mk II Ford Escort. Unlike the Mk I which was developed solely by Ford Europe, the Mk II was a collaboration between the UK and Ford of Germany. Using the 'Brenda' codename during its development, it shared its mechanical components with the outgoing Mk I. During the previous car's last months of production, certain features planned to appear with the Mk II were introduced such as a revised underbody.

Suspension and drivetrain were largely unchanged with leaf springs still featuring at the rear, a fact motoring journalists made much of at the time with contemporaries such as the Hillman Avenger moving on to coil springs.

The model line-up consisted of base/Popular models for the lower end of the market, L and GL (2- and 4-door saloon and estate) models for the mainstream, Ghia for the small luxury market and Sport, RS Mexico and RS2000 for the performance sector. There were also panel-van versions for commercial customers.

Engine options ranged from the 1100cc Crossflow 4-cylinder through to the 2.0 Pinto and Cosworth units of the competition cars.

A minor facelift was given to the range in 1978 with L models receiving square headlights in line with the GL and Ghia variants. Mechanicals were unchanged save for a wider track for the front suspension. Interiors received similar attention in the form of revised trim and equipment for lower models.

Special editions were offered in 1979 and 1980 in the form of the Linnet, Harrier and Goldcrest.

In similar fashion to its predecessor, the Mk II had a very successful rally career.

Production of the Mk II was ceased in 1980 to make way for the completely new Mk III.