A highly modified 1978 Ford Escort Mk2 once driven by Ken Block is now being offered for sale, bringing renewed attention to one of the most recognizable cars from the Gymkhana and Hoonigan era.
Originally built as a standard right-hand-drive road car, the Escort was acquired in 2008 and transformed into a purpose-built drift machine for Gymkhana Grid competition. The extensive conversion was carried out by Quick Motorsport in England, where the car was reengineered from the ground up and converted to left-hand drive for competitive use.
The Escort Mk2 has long held a reputation as a formidable rally platform. Introduced in 1975, it quickly proved its capabilities in motorsport, helping secure a World Rally Championship manufacturers’ title in 1979 and earning widespread respect among drivers and enthusiasts. This particular example, however, goes far beyond its original specifications.
Under the hood, the car is powered by a 2.5-liter Millington Diamond inline-four engine equipped with electronic fuel injection and individual throttle bodies. The setup delivers 333 horsepower and 246 pound-feet of torque, with a high-revving limit of 9,000 rpm. Power is managed through a six-speed sequential gearbox and routed to a motorsport-grade rear end.
The chassis and suspension systems have been extensively upgraded to meet the demands of drifting. The car features a World Rally Championship-style independent rear suspension, adjustable coilovers, and high-performance braking components. Additional enhancements include a reinforced structure, specialized wheels, and a widebody kit that incorporates lightweight materials.
The exterior carries a distinctive black finish with Hoonigan branding and an American flag design on the hood, along with functional additions such as camera mounts used during filming. Inside, the cabin has been stripped and rebuilt with racing equipment, including a roll cage, racing seats, harnesses, and advanced data logging systems.
Following its build reveal in 2015, the car became a regular feature in automotive media and video games, further cementing its status among fans. It was also included in a museum exhibition highlighting Ken Block’s influence on car culture.
Now offered with documentation, spare parts, and memorabilia, the Escort represents a unique opportunity to acquire a piece of modern motorsport and media history.
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