Oh hello! This is MST’s MK2 EVO-X, and it's a 365bhp rally car for the road

If you haven’t heard of MST Cars, it’s a small Welsh restomod firm which spruces up old Ford Escorts with wider hips, gaping fins and lowered suspensions. Oh, and more power. Lots more power. This is its latest creation, dubbed the MK2 EVO-X and based on the vintage ‘X-Pack’ from the Seventies, and isn’t it just wonderful?

Engine choices are split between two naturally aspirated four pots from either Duratec (275bhp, 2.5-litre) or Millington Diamond (365bhp, 2.9-litre). Next up is the gearbox: a tractive six-speed sequential or a five-speed ‘H’ pattern.

Some of the more generic updates include a redeveloped ECU and upgraded fuel injection throttle bodies, with a few new wires connecting all this lot. MST will also sling on a WRC-grade independent rear suspension which was previously developed by the late great Colin McRae. Nice touch.

Other goodies include AP Racing six-piston brakes with a choice of Ferodo or Mintex pads, a lightweight flywheel and a twin-plate paddle clutch. There’s more: a larger transmission tunnel, a stainless steel race manifold, a centrally-mounted fuel tank, and… OK, we’re done.

Moving onto the design, you'll spot those retro-futuristic headlight signatures immediately give away its position as a not-at-all standard Escort, there are 17in eight-spokes wrapped around Michelin Pilot Cup Sport tyres and a full carbon body kit.

All this then sits on top of a much bulkier chassis, with stronger plates and gussets to make sure those spirited drives can be a bit more… spirited. This is meant to make the EVO-X feel eerily close to a ‘modern’ rally car on the road, says MST, which will also give you the option of finishing that exterior with a works-themed livery.

We promise we won’t say the word ‘option’ again… after this. The interior’s options list is just as impressive: you can opt for a fully upholstered and trimmed look or a bare-boned, track-focused special. Probably best to see if you can keep the AC in for weeks like the one we’re experiencing now. You’ll also get three or six-point harnesses and various three-spoke steering wheels finished in leather or suede as finishing touches.

MST says orders can be made from 2025 onward for an as yet unconfirmed price, but consider the MST MK1 will set you back at least £175,000. Reckon it’s worth it?