go for the type 9. and unless you are set on a escort try a capri of a saph, might be easier.

my capri held its own easily and never let me down the boa and bob bottom ends are supposed to be good for somthing stupid(check the chain guides for wear though due to lack of oil and plugs are expensive from ford)

Ive heard bad storys about the type 9 box(v6 manual box from granadas and capris(the door 4 and 5 speed) but i have side footed the clutch and given it death for miles and it never failed me just leaked a little due to the rear axle tramp i had pulling the prop out slightly.