Not sure about Escorts but in the case of my Fairlane.The cars were built up in Australia with running gear and engines built in the US.
Then sent to South Africa in kit form and assembled there.Best place to find out mate is here www.africanmusclecars.com/forum/
Not just muscle,there are a few guys with Escorts,Capris,etc.I'm sure they could tell you all you need to know and would be interested to here about your car
Sean.