Ford Escort RS2000 (1974)

Sourced on behalf of a client, this fantastic, two owner, fully restored, Ford Escort RS2000

Launched in 1968 at the Brussels Motorshow, the humble Ford Escort would bear the underpinnings to redefine motorsport at the time. Tested throughout 1967 by Ford’s Competition Department, the Twin-Cam was ready to go at launch, enabling the Manufacturers World Rally Championship in both 1968 and 1969. Of its successes, one of the most notable was the model’s complete domination of the 1970 London to Mexico Rally. With just 1860ccs, the Escort took 1st, 3rd, 5th, 6th and 8th positions.

To capitalise on its successes, Ford introduced the tamer Escort Mexico in time for the 1971 with its updated, strengthened chassis and frame, rally suspension and brakes and a reduced capacity, resilient 1600cc ‘Kent’ series engine. The RS1600 by now had increased its successes over the Twin Cam and by 1973, the RS2000 had been introduced.

The RS2000 was destined to be the last model built at Ford’s now legendary Advanced Vehicle Operations factory. Combining independent front suspension, servo assisted disc brakes and the stronger Type 49 monocoque, after Ford shoehorned the larger 1993cc ‘Pinto’ engine into the RS2000 creating an amalgamation of pace and comfort, merging the worlds of the RS1600 and the Mexico as one.

This example had resided in the same Oxfordshire village until now. First registered in May 1974, it would be kept by its first owner for thirty-five years. Its most recent owner purchased the car in 2009, commencing what would become a nine-year restoration resulting in arguably one of the finest restored examples anywhere in the world. Liveried as supplied in 1974, today the car presents superbly, accompanied by its history folder along with MOTs back to 1979.

Please note, this vehicle is no longer for sale.