Boreham Motorworks is meticulously bringing back a piece of automotive history by recreating the iconic Ford Escort Mk1 from Alan Mann Racing. These authentic continuation vehicles, built with the official endorsement of Ford, embody the spirit and specifications of the original race cars. With a limited production run, these new Escorts promise to offer enthusiasts a chance to own a faithful replica of a racing legend, blending historical accuracy with modern craftsmanship. This ambitious project aims to honor Alan Mann Racing's significant legacy in motorsport while introducing these classic machines to a new generation of collectors and fans.

The Rebirth of a Racing Icon: Alan Mann '68 Edition Ford Escorts Unveiled Near Goodwood

In a captivating display that drew significant attention just outside the prestigious 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed, Boreham Motorworks proudly presented their latest creations: two exquisite Mk1 Ford Escorts. One of these striking vehicles was adorned in the instantly recognizable red-and-gold livery of the legendary Alan Mann Racing team, a testament to the meticulous attention to historical detail. These stunning automobiles represent the pre-production models of the highly anticipated Alan Mann '68 Edition, a series of continuation cars crafted to the exact FIA Group 5 specifications that defined the original Alan Mann Racing machines. The world can eagerly await the delivery of the very first customer vehicle in the upcoming month of August.

Established in 1964, Alan Mann Racing forged an indelible partnership with Ford, campaigning a variety of the Blue Oval's most celebrated models, including the Lotus Cortina, Mustang, and Falcon. However, it was the Ford Escort that truly etched the team's distinctive livery into the annals of racing history, largely due to its triumphant win in the 1968 British Saloon Car Championship. During its golden era, coinciding with Ford's strategic 'Total Performance' initiative to leverage motorsport victories for marketing prowess, Alan Mann Racing became a veritable pantheon of racing talent. Storied drivers such as Jackie Stewart, Jacky Ickx, Graham Hill, Jack Brabham, Bruce McLaren, and Mario Andretti all graced the team's roster at various points.

Despite a period of dormancy following Ford's scaled-back motorsport endeavors, the esteemed Alan Mann name resurfaced in 2004, specializing in the preparation of historic race cars. Then, in late 2024, Boreham Motorworks proudly announced its assumption of stewardship over this revered heritage, promising to uphold and advance its legacy.

The most tangible outcome of this significant collaboration is the Alan Mann '68 Edition Escort. While Boreham Motorworks also intends to develop modernized road-going versions of the Escort, this particular edition is engineered to be an identical twin to the cars that thundered across race tracks under Alan Mann in 1968. Boreham has meticulously recreated Alan Mann's distinctive sliding-joint MacPherson strut front suspension, and a steadfast commitment to period correctness means the '68 Edition features a solid rear axle equipped with a Watts linkage. Furthermore, it rolls on 8.5-inch front and 10-inch rear wheels, dimensions that might appear surprisingly compact by contemporary standards yet remain authentic to the era.

Under the hood, a potent 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine churns out an impressive 201 horsepower. This power is channelled to the rear wheels via a precise four-speed manual transmission, a combination perfectly suited for the Escort's lean 1,752-pound dry curb weight. Boreham Motorworks confidently asserts that this weight mirrors that of the original competition cars, ensuring an authentic driving experience. The Alan Mann '68 Edition stands as the most exclusive offering among the Escort continuation vehicles planned by Boreham Motorworks. The company also has plans to introduce road and track variants that, while still embodying the Escort spirit, will not adhere as rigidly to period specifications, allowing for somewhat larger production numbers. Looking ahead, Boreham Motorworks is poised to revive another celebrated Ford classic: the formidable RS200 rally car.

The resurgence of iconic racing vehicles, meticulously recreated with the blessing of original manufacturers and race teams, offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of automotive appreciation. It's a powerful statement that celebrates not just the engineering marvels of the past but also the enduring thrill of competition. From a journalistic perspective, witnessing these continuation cars is like unearthing a living artifact. It speaks to a deep human desire to reconnect with history, to touch and experience the legends that once dominated racetracks. For enthusiasts, it's more than just a car; it's a tangible link to an era of raw, unadulterated speed and unparalleled driving skill. This initiative by Boreham Motorworks highlights a growing trend where historical integrity meets modern manufacturing capabilities, allowing new generations to not only admire but actively participate in the legacy of automotive greatness. It prompts us to consider the value of authenticity in a world increasingly driven by digital simulations, reminding us that some experiences are best lived in the tangible, mechanical realm.