Hi Cannonball,
 
A Pinto in England would be a great choice.   I would suggest the 1971-1973 models.   The drivetrain would be similar to many cars that were manufactured in  England and Germany and sold through out Europe.    (Capri, Cortina, etc.)     I know my 1973 1600 has a FOB (Ford of Britain) engine and transmission.
 
My advice is to get a car with an absolutely perfect body and interior.  Those are the items that would be difficult to get in England.  So spend more money to save money.     
 
I think I have the Peterson book you mentioned focusing on Pintos.  It shows many different modifed Pintos.  Everything from a 75 mile per gallon diesel to Racer Walsh modifications. 
 
However all I seen was a picture that looks like a "Boss" with no details.   The car looks exactly like CookieBoy's car.
You can search around to get more pictures and information.  Maybe he will comment.  I really like the look of his car, especially the spoilers and side skirts.  Just perfect and not over the top.   It would make a great "handler" project to surprise the ricers. 
 
Picture: