The 1978 Ford Escort that Ken Block used for his early Gymkhana videos – his first dedicated rear-wheel-drive stunt build – is now available through Bring a Trailer. This car isn’t just a performance build; it’s a piece of motorsport history, poised to fetch a high price due to its connection to the late rally icon.
The Legacy of Ken Block and Gymkhana
Ken Block revolutionized rally culture, drawing millions into the sport with his high-energy Gymkhana series. His builds weren’t just about speed; they were about spectacle, often involving deliberate and dramatic tire wear. This Escort represents an early chapter in that story, a bridge between his all-wheel-drive Subaru beginnings and later creations like the insane Hoonicorn Mustang.
A Rally-Spec Machine Built for Mayhem
The Escort itself is a no-expense-spared build designed for precision stunting and maximum tire destruction. Over two years, it was transformed into a tarmac-focused machine. Key modifications include:
- Engine: A 2.5-liter Millington Diamond inline-four, producing 333 horsepower at a screaming 9000 rpm redline. Quad individual throttle bodies and a Cosworth ECU ensure precise fuel delivery.
- Transmission: A six-speed sequential gearbox for lightning-fast shifts.
- Chassis: Reinforced unibody with a UK-built roll cage, paired with a lightweight carbon fiber widebody kit from Rocket Bunny.
- Weight Reduction: Lightweight glass and carbon fiber seats further reduce mass.
This isn’t just a fast car; it’s a meticulously engineered tool for controlled chaos.
The Escort’s Place in Rally History
First- and second-generation Ford Escorts were – and remain – a staple in rallying. Accessible, affordable, and well-documented, they became a favorite among privateer teams. Today, they’re still popular, especially in Ireland where Mk 1 and Mk 2 Escorts dominate narrow rural roads. This particular Escort takes that spirit and amplifies it.
A Museum Piece Ready to Shred
The car was even part of the Petersen Automotive Museum’s exhibition on Ken Block’s life, solidifying its status as a significant artifact. Yet, despite its collectible value, it was built for one purpose: to be driven hard. The auction ends on April 3rd, and bidding will likely be aggressive; after all, this is a piece of automotive history that still begs for a burnout or two.
This Escort embodies Block’s spirit – a playful disregard for tires and an unrelenting commitment to pushing the limits. It’s a treasure for any collection, but its true value lies in the potential to honor his legacy by doing exactly what he intended: tearing up the tarmac.
