Sounds like a cool project mate. I could be wrong but didnt they do a 1800 rally spec factory version? I have a vague memory of it being a twin cam 1.8ltr (Maybe Lotus?), It may have been in the UK but have a memory of them bringing out a number of them here. If they did it might give you a few more options in LEGAL, engine size and performance.

The RS 1800 Mexico. Beautiful cars. The 1800 was a BDA motor and revved it's nuts off!

I owned a Mk 1 and 4 Mk II Eskies and your sure to have a lot of fun playing around with it. Set the suspension up first and then upgrade the motor. With good suspension they are a ton of fun to throw into a twisty mountain rd. I'm thinking of building another one very soon.

Hey guys I'm new to this forum and I'm from south africa.if you're looking to change your engine your best bet would be a 4age 20v blacktop,it offers plenty of power from the factory and I can help indicate to you what you need to do for this build because I just finished my mk1 escort 4age 20v project.when I mean this motor is powerful guys in south africa have been getting 14.8 seconds on a 1/4 mile from an unopened motor,the motors as follows(cold air intake,63mm exhaust with a 4-1 manifold,85mm ram tubes(trumpets)and a after market ecu.