What started as a father-and-son project in 2020 has rapidly evolved into one of the most exciting cars in the Super Retro Rallycross paddock.

Built alongside his father and fuelled by a shared passion for motorsport, Dan Swayland’s Ford Escort Mk1 has undergone a remarkable transformation in just a few short years. Originally constructed by Pete Maylum, the car made its competitive debut in 2022 and quickly established itself as a force within the Retro Rallycross Championship.

Championship-Winning Foundations

During its dominant years in the Retro category, the Escort was powered by a Julian Godfrey fuel-injected BDA RS1600 engine. The car featured an English axle, Quaife gearbox, Bilstein suspension, smaller AP Racing brakes and 13-inch wheels – a proven package that delivered back-to-back Retro Rallycross Championship titles in 2024 and 2025.

But success only fuelled the ambition for what could come next.

Stepping Up to Super Retro

Following two consecutive championship victories, Dan and the team made the decision to elevate both themselves and the car to the highly competitive Super Retro category.

The transformation was extensive.

At the heart of the build sits a Julian Godfrey-built 1800cc BDT / RS200 engine producing a staggering 480 horsepower. To handle the additional performance, the Escort received larger AP Racing brakes, a Samsonas dog gearbox, RIX suspension, a fully floating Atlas rear axle, larger 15-inch wheels and a rear radiator conversion.

The visual transformation was equally impressive. Full Circle Automotive wrapped the car in a sleek new livery, complemented by an aggressive aerodynamic package featuring a prominent rear wing that perfectly reflects the car’s new capabilities.

A Completely Different Driving Experience

The jump in performance has been significant.

“The power upgrade is immense,” says Dan. “The upgraded front end has eliminated the bump steer we previously experienced, and although the car is slightly heavier to meet the 1060kg regulation weight with the driver on board, it actually leans and settles better through the corners.”

The improvements have already delivered impressive results on track.

At the revised Mondello Park layout, designed for the European Championship with its extended straight, the Escort has achieved speeds of 180 km/h (115 mph). During the finale weekend, Dan recorded a stunning 48.5-second lap time – the fastest lap across the entire Retro division.

Learning Among the Best

Moving into Super Retro was about more than simply building a faster car.

“After conquering the Retro Championship two years running, moving into Super Retro felt like the natural next step. The car was ready for its next evolution and so was I.”

“The competition is fierce. I’m racing against some of the best drivers at the top of their game, but with that comes an incredible amount of support and mentorship. Every race weekend I’m learning from the best in the sport, and I’m hugely grateful for the guidance and encouragement from the racers around me.”

Looking Ahead

Despite already achieving impressive results in its debut Super Retro season, the team remains focused on continuous development.

The ultimate ambition is clear: a Super Retro Championship title.

Beyond that, there are aspirations of competing on the European stage, although Dan remains realistic about the journey ahead.

“One day Europe is absolutely the goal, but there’s still experience to gain before then. Right now we’re focused on learning, improving and continuing to develop both the car and ourselves.”

For a project that began with a father, a son and a toolbox, the results have already exceeded expectations.

And with Dan currently sitting second in the Super Retro Championship standings, the future looks incredibly bright.

Images courtesy of http:// www.mattbristow.net