Lot 231 - 1974 Ford Escort RS2000 Mk. I

• Race prepared
• Impressive restoration

The Mk. I Ford Escort was introduced in the UK at the end of 1967, making its show debut at Brussels Motor Show in January 1968 and replacing the successful long running Anglia. Escorts became successful as a rally car, and eventually went on to become one of the most successful rally cars of all time. The Ford works team was practically unbeatable in the late 1960s and early 1970s; arguably the Escort's greatest victory was in the 1970 London to Mexico World Cup Rally being driven by Finnish legend Hannu Mikkola. This gave rise to the Escort Mexico special edition road versions in honour of the rally car. In addition to the Mexico, the RS1600 was developed which used a Kent engine block with a 16 valve Cosworth cylinder head. This engine was essentially a de-tuned Formula Three engine designated BDA. Both the Mexico and RS1600 were built at Ford's Advanced Vehicle Operations (AVO) facility located at the Aveley Plant in South Essex. As well as higher performance engines and sports suspension, these models featured strengthened bodyshells, making them ideal for rallying. Ford also produced an RS2000 model as an alternative to the somewhat temperamental RS1600, featuring a 2.0 litre Pinto (OHC) engine. This also chalked up some rally and racing victories and pre-empted the hot-hatch market as a desirable but affordable performance road car. Like the Mexico and RS1600, this car was produced at the Aveley plant.

Originally registered on 8th April 1974, this original Escort RS 2000 is supplied with a host of paperwork, together with a V5C registration document and a current MoT test certificate valid until 10th July 2019. Finished in the instantly recognizable colours of Diamond White with blue stripes, this Escort has benefitted from restoration and a host of upgrades including a strengthened bodyshell with fully tied in roll cage, jacking points for jack stands and steel bubble arches. The vendor states that from the FIA certified Cobra Bucket seats with four point Sabelt harnesses this Escort offers a fantastic driving experience. Not surprising when you see the list of mechanical works completed. These include a recently rebuilt 2.1 Pinto engine with alloy sump, Weber carburettors, Newland Phase three fast road cam, ported cylinder head and a heat wrapped four branch exhaust manifold. The vendor also states that this impressive Ford is producing 165bhp.With its five speed quick shift gearbox and quick steering rack she really is a lively thing. The good news is that with vented front discs, anti roll bar and anti dive conversion, and a rear brake disc conversion using Sierra Cosworth brake calipers she also stops well.