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We Can Hear This LSx Ford Escort All The Way From Britain: Video

The Euro-spec Mark V Ford Escort is a fun-to-drive car with spry driving characteristics (or so we hear from our European peers), but it’s hardly the most exciting car the Blue Oval has ever produced.

The Mark V Ford Escort you’re looking at here isn’t like most, though. It started out life as a GTI model with a modest 1.8-liter Zetec four-cylinder engine, but it has since been turned into a manic-sounding time attack racer with a General Motors 6.0-liter LSx V8 engine, rear-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission.

LSX Ford Escort Video 003

This build was put together by Mitch Sharp’s company MKS Developments, which specializes in race car CAD design and fabrication. The LSx V8 is based on an LS2 block and features upgraded pistons and rods, ported LS3 cylinder heads and an aftermarket camshaft. Other drivetrain parts include a T56 Magnum six-speed manual transmission, an LS7 clutch, lightweight flywheel, custom 3-inch driveshaft and the limited slip differential from a Holden Monaro VXR.

LSX Ford Escort Video 002

This is a time attack car, so the suspension and brakes are equally as important as the power. The Escort has custom front and rear subframes fabricated by MKS Developments (enabling a wider front and rear tracks) along with adjustable dampers and large brake rotors. It also has D2 six piston brake calipers up front and Wilwood calipers in the rear. Completing the package are the requisite aerodynamic parts to help ensure the little Escort stays stuck to the pavement, which include a massive front splitter, rear wing and rear diffuser, along with a flat floor.

You can see the MKS Developments Ford Escort in action in the videos embedded below.

Source: Engine Swap Depot/MKS Developments

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Sam loves to write and has a passion for auto racing, karting and performance driving of all types.

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