Ford Escort 1.6GL five-door

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Launched way back in 1968 and remaining in production until 2000, the Ford Escort became the UK’s best-selling car of all time with over 4m sold during its 32-year run.

Over this period it went through six generations of development with engines ranging in size from 1.1- to 2-litres. All were blessed with excellent handling and responded well to tuning with the result that many versions went on to enjoy considerable success in competition.

The most radical change came with the MkIII in 1980. Featuring such novelties as front-wheel drive and a new hatchback body, the new range of CVH engines added a much needed injection of sophistication to the Escort’s drive-train. The MkIV carried on the model’s success, arriving in 1986 and sporting a more aerodynamic nose and an updated dashboard and helped Ford continue to dominate the sales charts.

This amazing 1988 1.6GL has had just one lady owner from new and cost £8,800 according to its original bill of sale. The service book shows only two stamps, although this shouldn’t come as a surprise as this immaculate car has only covered 5,877 miles since delivery. Always kept in her heated garage, it has taken 27 years to cover its last 2,000 miles, the document folder holding every MOT from 1991 until she stopped using the car due to illness in 2010.

Described by the owner as an immaculate example which has just flown through its latest MOT test, this rare, barely used Escort looks like a must for the serious Ford collector.