I had loads of mk1 and Mk2 Escorts in my youth. They were just old cars then and were reasonably affordable. I had over the years, a Lotus Cortina, 2x Mk1 Mexicos, 2x Mk1 RS2000, 3x 1600 Sport, a Harrier, Mk2 Mex, Mk2 RS1800, mk2 Group 1 flat front RS2000 and 2 Mk2 RS2000, the last being a late 81 W reg. They were all mint and looking at todays prices that little lot would be worth a fortune today.
Eventually saw the light and moved onto Alfa Giulias. Prettier, faster, better built and at the time much cheaper.