We tow our Eriba Triton, 950kgs, with a Renault Clio 1.5 turbo diesel with a 1000kg kerb weight. This only develops 65 bhp but gives it's maximum torque at 2000 rpm, which is equivalent to 50 mph in 5th gear, so it pulls much better than one might imagine and gives 46 mpg on a Spanish motorway which has 50 as the speed limit for towing.
This combination is also very stable and we rarely feel overtaking HGVs unless they are very fast and too close for comfort. I think this comes from the very short distance between the back axle and the towball.
up date guys, the escort has passed on to that last great resting place for escorts due to an MOT bill for over £700.
so new tow car is a peugoet 406 tdi. this is a compleatly differant animal. i have yet to put a tow bar on it but i have heard they make very good tow cars.