The Escort Mk1 had been a big success as a Panda car but the roomier Mk2 model announced in 1975 was, if anything, even more successful as forces switched away from the BMC/BL 1300 range when its successor, the Allegro, did not meet their requirements.
Panda cars of this era were the first to move away from their traditional pale blue and white livery as budget cut backs during a time of austerity ensured that forces opted to have their cars supplied in a standard manufacturer’s colour. This cost less and produced a greater resale value when the cars were sold after around three years in service.v