Wheeler Dealers

Mike Brewer secures a Ford Escort Mk1 at an internet auction for £4,500. Together with Edd China, he proceeds to carry out a retro refit in a hands‑on project, aiming to restore the classic 1970s model and extend its lifespan.

The episode centres on the Ford Escort Mk1, presenting the iconic 1970s model as the focal point of a dedicated programme. It follows a straightforward premise: two well‑known motoring personalities set out to revive a classic car, using the format of a single‑episode feature. In the first stage of the story, Mike Brewer secures a Ford Escort Mk1 at an online auction, paying £4,500 for the vehicle. The purchase forms the catalyst for the rest of the episode, establishing the budget and the initial condition of the car that will be tackled. From there, Brewer joins forces with Edd China, and the pair roll up their sleeves to begin the restoration work. Together they assess the car’s mechanical and aesthetic state, planning the steps needed to bring it back to a usable condition. Their collaboration drives the narrative forward, showing the practical side of refurbishing a vintage automobile. The ultimate aim of the project is to give the Escort a fresh lease of life by fitting it with a retro‑styled refit. By blending period‑appropriate details with modern reliability, the episode demonstrates how a classic 1970s vehicle can be transformed while still respecting its heritage. The result is a refreshed car that retains its original character, completing the episode’s restoration journey.