what Marty said about the rust.
Since its a 2 door, many people (myself included) see them as more valuable than a 4 door.
Alot of the trim parts are getting up there in pricing to buy now , but probably cheaper generally than what you are used to with the Mk1 Capri, and Mk1 escort parts dearer again.
As the engine is out, thats probably in your favour in gettting it cheaper as you can argue you cant hera it running or obviously drive it. Expect that most mechanical stuff has to be replaced. If its a manual, and has a dash with tacho, that is great. If the stering wheel is a flat one with 3 spokes, better still.
If it helps, my 4 door Mk2 Escort just sold for $18k, it was neat and tidy, but really would be up for a repaint to take it to the $25-$30Kmark. The 2 door would be more than this.
If Canberra does have some mk1's, and you want to minimise the cars you do, then go straight for a Mk1, as a 2 door mk1 that has a 2L or more modern engine swap is the holy grail.
I reckon if you got that car for $5K or thereabouts, that would be a bargain to me.
More likely youd have to pay closer to $8-$10K at least?
Still going to be a $20k car easy with the normal effort.
Good luck and send us some pics!