1968 Ford Escort Twin Cam Group 2
1968 Ford Escort Twin Cam Group 2
Brand
Ford
Year
1968
Country
United States
Generation
Escort I
1968 Ford Escort Twin Cam Group 2
Brand
Ford
Year
1968
Country
United States
Generation
Escort I
About this car
Discover the history
The 1968 Ford Escort Twin Cam Group 2 is a historic and iconic race car that played a pivotal role in Ford’s racing success during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Originally developed by Ford’s UK operations, the Escort Twin Cam was designed as a high-performance version of the standard Escort, with a particular focus on competition. The car was powered by a 1.6-liter twin-cam engine, derived from the Lotus Cortina, and was homologated for Group 2 touring car racing. This homologation allowed the Twin Cam to compete in prestigious events like the European Touring Car Championship (ETCC) and the British Saloon Car Championship.
The Escort Twin Cam’s engineering was highly advanced for its time, incorporating a lightweight body and a chassis that was tuned for optimal handling. This combination made it an excellent platform for motorsport. The car featured a rear-wheel-drive layout and a robust suspension system that was capable of handling the rigors of racing. The McPherson strut front suspension and a live axle rear setup gave it excellent balance and agility on the track.
In terms of racing pedigree, the Escort Twin Cam quickly became a dominant force in the touring car scene. The Alan Mann Racing Team was one of the key teams that fielded the Escort in competition, with notable drivers such as Jackie Oliver and Frank Gardner achieving significant success. The car’s lightweight design and powerful engine made it competitive against larger, more powerful vehicles, especially in endurance races. It performed well in various European championships and was a frequent competitor in both national and international events. Notably, the Escort Twin Cam won multiple class victories in the ETCC and secured wins in rallies as well.
Beyond its track success, the Escort Twin Cam also had a storied history in rallying. It became a favorite in the rally community due to its reliability and performance, cementing its legacy as one of Ford’s most versatile competition cars. Many of the original works cars have become valuable collector’s items today, with some having been meticulously restored to their original specifications for historic racing events, including appearances at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
The Escort Twin Cam’s blend of performance, engineering innovation, and racing success made it a legendary model in Ford’s racing history, and it remains highly regarded by enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its influence can still be seen in Ford’s later performance models, such as the Sierra RS Cosworth.
