I have owned many Series 2 RS Turbos over the years and without being with one for the last 2 years, I came across this car and it took my fancy. It was completely standard with its own original spec exhaust, wheels and no engine modifications. It even had the original 2005 Ford stereo and speakers.
There was a Ford leather history folder full of bills and receipts for work that had been carried out over the years. Also a rolling road report that 15 years on it’s still pushing out 132 BHP ( The same when it left Fords production line in 1990).

I bought the car and set out the long task of making the car fresh again with lots of cleaning and time hunting down many original Ford parts that needed replacing to give it that new look. Many of the parts had been discontinued, but I tracked them down !

I have been working on the car for the last 7 months and its now up to the condition I wanted it to be. I am glad that I spent the time and money on the original parts so the car will live on for many years as Ford intended their S2 RS Turbo model to be.

ESCORT S2 RS TURBO

Name: Michael Black
Area: Romford, Essex
Year: 1990 ‘ G ‘ Reg

Engine
Type: CVH.
Capacity: 1596cc
Bore/Stroke: 79.9mmx79.5mm
Compression ratio: 8.2:1
Max Power: 132bhp@5750rpm
Max Torque: 132 @ 2750rpm
0-60: 8.2 seconds.
1/4 Mile: 16.8 seconds.
Max Speed: 128mph

Transmission
Five speed manual Ford BC box.
3.821:1 final drive ratio.
220mm clutch.
viscous coupled limited-slip differential.

90 Spec
Front heated screen.
Trim fabric ‘ Zolda ‘ which is grey, red and blue.
Roof lining in light grey.
Tilt and slide sunroof.
Electric windows and mirrors.
Central locking.
Rear heated screen.
Tinted glass.
Face lift front bumper and rear spoiler.
Stereo radio/cassette – model 2005 with anti theft coding & four speakers,
Outline boot badge.

Michael has owned the K200 for 6 years now. The car was purchased with a a 2.5Ltr. Renault V6 engine coupled to a Renault auto box but this would only be a temporary installation as Michael intended to fit the correct Cosworth/UN1 combination at the earliest opportunity. This is how the care remained for 5 months on the original setup, not the most inspiring motoring I have experienced, but in a car that looks as if it is traveling at illegal speeds while not actually getting above 60mph, still quite enjoyable!

Michael had decided on a 16v Cosworth YB turbo engine from a 4×4 Sierra Cosworth with the power being put down via a Renault UN1 transaxle.
” It always amazes me how word gets out that you are looking for things, and after a short while, through a friend, of a friend, of a friend, I was supplied with the phone No. of a guy who had a supply of Cossie, units” A meeting was arranged, a deal struck, and Michael was the proud owner of three crates of stripped Cossie parts!

A trip to a local salvage yard and the appropriate transaxle was found, nestling in a Renault 25, £80 for the box, and £20 to cut it out and put it on the back of his truck, Bargain? we think so!

Without further ado, the car was put into the garage for the imminent transplant. The rear bodywork and chassis members where removed allowing excellent access to the engine bay, with the hoist attached, and with a sigh of relief the engine and gearbox where removed and disposed of. The whole rear end was stripped of all ancillary parts, including suspension components etc. The chassis was stripped back to bare metal and inspected. New gearbox mounting points where made and welded into place, and the chassis was then painted with Hammerite.

At the same time as this work was being done, the engine was receiving the attentions of Glen Kansley of GK Autos in Romford. He completed the full rebuild, including all balancing and lightening, and made an excellent job. Gearbox and engine where mated together with a purpose made bell housing and a hybrid clutch ( Cosworth friction material / Renault center and bearing), two Cosworth drive shafts were purchased (two long shafts from a 2wd) and fitted to the transaxle using adapter plates, the gearbox was adapted to take the new gearlever assembly.

The electrics where next for the chop, and a new Cosworth engine loom was installed along with some alterations to the original loom which at times did manage to cause us to question its parentage!

It was about this time we had a visit from a guy who was passing and had seen the car outside the garage, he turned out to be Dave Winskle, who had owned one of the first KARA 430’s some years earlier. He is a true RS200 enthusiast, and has been a great help over the past years, it is Dave who supplied the decals that are currently on the vehicle.

Also worthy of a mention is John Bass, a friend who has provided much support, technical expertise and who has an uncanny knack of locating obsolete Ford parts, i.e. original RS200 header tank (rare as hens teeth!).

With all parts back in place it was time to fire her up and go for a test drive, all was ok to our delight, the only slight problem was a lack of power under full load which was traced to a jammed fuel pressure regulator that was promptly changed, and bingo, big smiles all round.

After about a year of trouble free, very public, (What is it, How fast, How much) and fun motoring, I had managed to find an original set of 200 wheels to replace the Escort Cosworth items the car was currently wearing. A trip to Blackpool to do a deal on the wheels via specialized car covers in Bradford to be measured for a cover, made for a good day out. (Please don’t mention the trauma of being dragged onto the Big One by my wife). New longer wheel studs had to be made to allow the wheels to be fitted, after being shod with Goodyear 225/50/16 F1 rubber. This gave the car the correct period look, a vast improvement.

Another year goes by before the next stage of restoration is undertaken, this time it’s the bodywork that gets my attention.

The floor on K200 was in a poor condition, the passenger had the pleasure of being able to count the cat’s eyes through the hole!

I decided to replace the floor with 3mm aluminum sheet, to do this I first had to remove the side pods, which then revealed the reason for the rot in the floor. The side pods had been filled with expanding foam, I can only assume for sound deadening purposes, unfortunately this had blocked the drainage holes on the underside, leading to the pods filling with water whenever the car got wet, the sills and subsequently the floor then rotted. When I discovered this, I was quite worried that the chassis would be rotten, but to my relief it was ok. One of the side pods had received a shoddy repair, I presume following some accident damage, so this was repaired and at the same time the holes for the side repeaters where filled so that I could re-locate them in the bonnet as the original car. Stainless steel sills were made and the ally floor was fitted on the eve of the national kit car show 2001, nothing like leaving it to the last moment!

So far this year the car has had its oil breather system improved and a suspension overhaul by Leda in Braintree. I am currently putting together a replica rs200 dash to replace the sierra cosworth item currently installed, and fitting bigger front brakes, alloy Alcon four pots from a racing Puma, the original four pots from the front will be re-located at the rear along with the original rear calipers for the handbrake in a twin caliper arrangement as on the genuine car. The clutch will be replaced this winter after it started to slip slightly at a couple of track days.

The car is now only used during the dry summer months, and I try to attend as many shows as is possible. Next year we are planning a trip to Spa-Francorchamps and also the Nurburgring for some track action. A trip over the Alps into Italy (Italian job style) may be an option if I can talk the wife into accompanying me with the trailer (just in case!).

You can catch Michael at most of the shows so give him your appreciation tell him you saw his amazing car here!

Also Michael wants to thank his 17 year old son John who has been a great help during the rebuild and is a true rs200 fan and is off to university soon to study motorsport engineering. Good luck John … seeing the RS200 you should have no problems!

micksar@ntlworld.com

…

Update – 2004

I removed the gearbox to replace the clutch which had started to slip at the end of last years show season, only to discover that it was contaminated with oil and the flywheel was quite badly burned, at first I thought the problem was a leaking rear crank seal so I removed the engine which then escalated into a full rebuild, lucky really as I discovered the head gasket was letting go, I then discovered that the oil leak was from the clutch slave cylinder! the engine has had new hydraulic tappets ( I used two sets of 8 valve golf ones which are identical to cosworth items but half the price) new bronze valve guides, total seal piston rings, oil pump upgraded (spring), GPA breather system from both sides of block, new exhaust manifold studs, new callipers front and rear, new x drilled and grooved discs front and rear, new braided brake lines all round, new wheel bearings, new clutch slave cylinder, etc. etc. etc. I also took the opportunity to make new nylatron suspension bushes for the rear, 28 in total, as the original nylon ones where shot which was causing rear steer at speed! not fun.

A friend of mine had a supply of nylatron rod which was quite simple to turn down and insert a stainless steel sleeve into. the rest of the rear suspension had a makeover with the wishbones being chrome plated and the hubs nickel plated. I have also fitted a smaller thinner radiator (from a transit) to replace the RS200 one that had sprung, this will all be controlled by an electric water pump and controller which all weighs a quarter of the original radiator.

With a new baby on the way (No6) and work commitments, progress has been quite slow so I missed all of last seasons shows. the car is almost finished now, I only have to fit the driveshafts, fill the gearbox with oil, reset the rear suspension and run her in. I was quite lucky to obtain two original unused carbon fibre RS200 seats for the princely sum of £400 !!!! these will be fitted in the new year along with the Sabelt 4 point harnesses. We have made enquiries with Conrad Wall the organiser of the Cannonball run, who is desperate for me to enter the event next year, apparently he wants something a bit different on the event, so if there are no problems after the run in I will be there, so look out for us on the box. The engine should be capable of 410bhp/400ftlb so some fun with Ferraris and Porsches should be had!

Hopefully the dashboard will be completed next year if I can locate the correct gauges, I think this will greatly improve the interior look along with the seats. I have had a great many e-mails from people throughout the world since you featured my car, it has been a pleasure replying to them as they have all been very complementary.

I have also received some photos from a guy who was on his way to an RS meet and passed us on the motorway on the way to Donnington, where he took the pics through the passenger window which my daughter found very amusing, like they say “its a small world!” I would like to thank all the people who have contacted me and look forward to many more.

This shows pumaspeeds intent, and the way forward for the company over the next few years, with a wide range of parts for the fiesta, focus and puma available, their show cars including this baby, the focus rs, the fiesta st and the original bad boy cosworth puma – they have an impressive arsenal of cars.

This New Fiesta has only just been unveiled at “fiesta in the park” to massive public interest.

We will be following the progress of this car over the next few weeks very closely. Finally the spirit of the fiesta rs may be terrorising the highways after all!

If you are interested in purchasing one of these cars contact pumaspeed and get your name down.

Ford cancels Fiesta RS

Ford has ceased development of the Fiesta RS, claiming that it was impossible to make a sound business case for the car. Although demand was likely to be strong in the UK, other European markets showed insufficient interest in a £17k Fiesta to make the project financially viable.

The concept version of the Fiesta RS was shown at the Geneva Motor Show last March and again at Birmingham in May. Ford insiders had insisted that the production version was less than two years away and that it would be powered by a 200bhp 2.0-litre engine.

But the project has now been canned. Jost Capito, the head of Ford’s TeamRS performance division, admitted that the company ‘just can’t get the figures right’. After losing a rumoured £4500 per car on the image-building Focus RS, and with Ford still struggling globally, the Fiesta RS needed to be more than just a ‘halo car’.

‘We did factor the marketing benefits of an RS model into our calculations,’ said Capito, ‘but it still wasn’t enough. TeamRS is a new lifestyle brand and we need to be able to walk before we can run. I don’t want to be seen as a man who loses money.’

Even if the financial climate changes and the RS does become viable, Capito said ‘it would be at least 18 months before the car was production ready.’

Ford accepts that showing the RS concept at Geneva and Birmingham was a mistake because it overshadowed the Fiesta ST and created interest the company can’t satisfy. Ford now wants to shift attention to the new 220bhp Focus ST, which will be launched at the Geneva show in March and go on sale in the UK in November.

Here is the future of Ford’s RS performance road cars. The Concept Fiesta RS Turbo or Fiesta RS as it will probably be known. If Ford don’t build this car I think it’s the end of the road for the RS brand for the immediate future.
The Fiesta RS Concept would take its place above the Fiesta ST a production version of the Fiesta RS Concept could be ready for production in under 2 years. Fiesta RS Concept would be in excess of 180PS , with a target zero-to-60mph figure of around 7 seconds.

So are ford gonna build it … we hope so .. I love it and am sure you do to!

The Fiesta RS Concept in our opinion looks even hotter than the amazing focus rs which went before … please, please, please build it! … more info as we get it!

Below pictures from national day of the Concept RS in the flesh … it looks amazing!

Body
Type: pressed steel monocoque Escort three-door hatchback shell with Ford
Motorsport front and rear spoilers.

Colours
Sunburst Red, Caspian Blue, Stratos Silver, Diamond White, Black and Graphite
Grey.

Engine
Type: CVH
Capacity: 1596cc
Bore/stroke: 79.96 mm x 79.52 mm
Compression ratio: 8.3:1
Max power: 115 bhp @ 6000 rpm
Max torque: 106 lbf.ft @ 5250 rpm
Cylinders: four, in-line
Cylinder head: alloy
Block: cast iron
Installation: front-mounted, transverse
Valve gear: two valves per chamber, single overhead camshaft
Induction: Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection with overrun cut-off.

Transmission
Type: front-wheel-drive
Gearbox: five-speed Ford B5
Internal ratios: 1st, 3.15:1; 2nd, 1.91:1; 3rd, 1.27:1; 4th, 0.95:1; 5th, 0.83:1
Final drive: 3.84:1

Suspension
Front: independent with MacPherson struts, leading link TCS location and separate
anti-roll bar, 22mm lowering Koni dampers with progressive rate coil springs
Rear: independent with transverse arms, locating rods0, 22mm lowering Koni
dampers with progressive rate coil springs

Steering
Type: unassisted rack-and-pinion

Brakes
System: servo-assisted
Front: 240mm ventilated discs
Rear: 180mm drums

Wheels & Tyres
Wheels: seven-spoke RS alloys, 6×15
Tyres: 195/50 VR15 (UK cars only)
Interior
Trim: Recaro front seats in Ascot fabric trim, 60:40 rear-split seat
Grey leather covered sports steering wheel

Performance
Max speed: 118 mph
0-60 mph: 8.7 sec

What to look for

Identity
You’ll find the chassis numbers on the front slam panel and stamped directly on the
driver’s side floorplan. On the floorplan it’s hidden under the cut-away carpet and if
there’s any fresh paint or welding in this area then walk away. The CVH should have
a finned motorsport cam cover and twin coils to the right of the engine (these are
sometimes replaced due to expense…but shouldn’t be !!) The interior should have
schell roll top seats and a 4 spoke RS steering wheel. Make sure all aux lights are
there as well. Check the V5 form..it WILL state if it’s a 1600i or a made up vehicle !!!

Bodywork
Bottom line is you need to check for rust. Check the battery tray, chassis runners
(especially the rear section), front and rear wings, bulkhead, plus give the scuttle
panel a good prod. Another problem is crash damage. Look for mismatched panel
colours, overspray, large panel gaps and wonky filled patches. Check the car under
artificial light for signs of bad re-painting. This is where street lights are gold mine.
Make sure the aux lights and front and rear spoilers are in good order, difficult and
expensive to replace.

Engine
The CVH is about as tough as they come, especially with the RS’s non-hydraulic
tappets version. Blue smoke from the exhaust indicates worn bearings or bores and/or
stem seals (replace with Total Seals). Timing belts will have needed to be changed
fairly often (36k) and the injectors can become blocked. Servicing is crucial and so
are regular oil changes.

Transmission
The B5 box can get tired, sloppy linkage and the synchromesh wearing on 1st and 2nd.
Check the clutch as well, third gear pull away, checking for slippage and juddering.

Suspension
Three-stage adjustable set-up..yep, that’s right !!! Should all feel tight and responsive.
Check for leaking dampers, snapped/saggy springs and worn bushes.

Brakes
The Escort RS is prone to warping its discs. A lack of feel through the pedal is not
unusual, but watch for shuddering through the steering wheel. If they’ve been
upgraded, ensure there are receipts.

Interior
Rare, rare, rare seats !!!! One of a kind and really expensive if not impossible to
replace..so make sure the condition is spot on..did I also mention n they are RARE ??
RS steering wheel as standard, different door panels and centre console. Make sure all
look good.

Electrics
Make sure all switches are working. Bosch K-Jetronic injection system can be a prob.
Make sure it is running smoothly, no juddering or jumping (hiccups !!) and no starting
probs. Twin coils MUST be in good order, very difficult to replace.

What to pay

Below £2000
Look carefully at cars in this price range. They will need a lot of tidying and quite a
bit of money spent on them. You could end up with a bargain or a complete rust
bucket. Also look out for fakes…if in doubt, double check the chassis numbers and
contact the RS Owners Club. They can verify if its real or not.

£2000 – 3000
Spend this kind of money and you’ll have a good example on the drive. It’ll be
straight and honest, but don’t expect it to win any awards. There’s likely to be a
average miles and history. Basically, it’ll be a good used buy that looks respectable
and drives well. Beware of wolves in sheeps clothing though !!! Maybe modified.

£3000+
Pay this money and you’ve every right to expect an excellent example in return. Cars
will be very clean with FSH, few owners and low mileage. Concours spec with loads
of reciepts.

REMEMBER: THESE PRICES ARE JUST A GUIDLINE.

Facts

The ‘K’ in K-Jetronic stands for “continuous injection” – German for continuous is
KONTINUIERLICH. In the US it was known as the CIS-Jetronic (Continuous
Injection System). This is because the system fires the injectors continuously, unlike
the other electronic systems, one at a time.
Germany fitted Phoenix rubber from the factory and the UK fitted Dunlop D4’s.

Contacts and Insurance

HPI
A phone call that could save you a lot of grief by confirming the identity of the 1600i
and whether it’s stolen, a write-off or has outstanding finance. Costs £39.99
from HPI on 01722 422422, £36.99 from the AA on 0800 234999. Don’t just take a
dealers word as well.

Clubs

RS-Ford
www.rs-ford.co.uk

RS Owners’ Club,
PO Box 4044,
Pangbourne,
Reading,
Berks RG8 7XL
Tel: 01189 841583
www.rsownersclub.co.uk

Insurance
If you’re a 24-year-old writer living in Newent, Gloucestershire with four years NCB
and a clean licence, you can insure your standard £2000 RS16i for £525 fully comp
with a £450 excess.
If you fit a performance exhaust, roll cage and bigger brakes the premium will be
£630 with a £500 excess.
Quotes provided by Sterling on 08700 777888

Author: Wayne Phillips – Thanks Wayne!

Body
Type: pressed steel monocoque Fiesta three-door hatchback shell with Ford RS
bodykit including front spoiler, bonnet louvres and tailgate spoiler.

Colours
Diamond White, Radiant Red, Black & Mercury Grey Metallic.
Moondust Silver was also available for the last runs.

Engine
Type: CVH
Capacity: 1596cc
Bore/stroke: 79.96mm x 79.52mm
Compression ratio: 8.2:1
Max power: 133 bhp @ 5500 rpm
Max torque: 135 lbf.ft @ 2400 rpm
Cylinders: four, in-line
Cylinder head: alloy
Block: cast iron
Installation: front-mounted, transverse
Valve gear: two valves per cylinder, belt driven overhead camshaft
Induction: Garrett T2 turbo, intercooler, Ford EEC-IV engine management

Transmission
Type: front-wheel-drive
Gearbox: Type B5 five-speed Ford manual with 218mm clutch
Internal ratios: 1st, 2.95:1; 2nd, 1.94:1; 3rd, 1.34:1; 4th, 1.0:1; 5th, 0.8:1
Final drive: 3.82:1

Suspension
Front: MacPherson struts with 16mm anti-roll bar
Rear: torsion beam rear axle, with trailing arms, coil springs and 20mm anti-roll bar

Steering
Type: variable-ratio rack-and-pinion

Brakes
System: vacuum servo-assisted dual circuit hydraulic with optional ABS
Front: 240mm ventilated discs
Rear: 203mm drums

Wheels & Tyres
Wheels: three-spoke RS alloys, 5.5×14
Tyres: 185/55 VR14

Interior
Trim: Recaro front seats in Ascot fabric trim, 60:40 rear-split seat
Grey leather covered sports steering wheel

Performance
Max speed: 132 mph
0-60 mph: 7.9 sec

What to look for

Identity
You’ll find the chassis numbers on the front slam panel and stamped directly on the
driver’s side floorplan. On the floorplan it’s hidden under the lidded cover and if
there’s any fresh paint or welding in this area then walk away.

Bodywork
Earliest cars are now over 10 years old and ripe for rust. MkIII Fiesta’s not a bad
rotter, but watch for bubbling rear arches, corroding battery trays, and especially
accident damage. Look for this on the front end…new front slam panel and wings.
Some bubbles around the petrol cap area are not un-common. Check the car under
artificial light for signs of bad re-painting. This is where street lights are gold mine.
Also get on your hands and knees and look at the floorpan to check if the chassis is
suffering from rott, especially around the door pillars and the bulkhead, if it’s
bad walk away!

Engine
Turbo CVH is quite tough, but it does suffer if it’s neglected. Look for a decent
service history as regular oil changes are the key to keeping one alive. If this isn’t
done then sludging gums up the hydraulic tappets, oil circulation is then reduced and
bore/bearing wear sets in. Blue smoke will give you a good clue as to what’s
happening. Bad news if you’re skint, but a great bargaining point if you’re planning to
rip it out drop in a 1900. Also make sure the engine is cold when you arrive to inspect
it. Warm engines can hide quite a few things.

Transmission
Like its motor, the RS Fiesta’s gearbox is a tough bit of kit. However, it wasn’t the
smoothest box when new and failing synchromesh, noisy bearings and a slack linkage
can make it even worse. A baulky shift when the engine’s cold will give you an
indication of worn synchromesh. Don’t forget the clutch – the Fiesta can eat them in
just 20,000 miles.

Suspension
Critics were hard on the RS Fiesta’s ride and handling when launched, but it’s really
not that bad. The ride should be quite firm and don’t worry about a little torque steer.
Kerbed alloys could mean the suspension’s taken a beating and uneven tyre wear
indicates the tracking’s out. Easy to fix, unless it’s the result of badly repaired
accident damage.

Brakes
As per the Escort RS Turbo, the blown Fiesta’s prone to warping its discs. Easy to
spot as the shuddering will send your shoe off the pedal.

Interior
Shabby Recaros are a big turn off. Getting replacement trim is expensive and timeconsuming.
But if you’re angling for a full leather retrim it’s not going to bother you
that much – of course, you don’t want to tell the person selling the car this. Also
check the carpets…a sure tell-tale sign if the mileage matches the condition etc. This
part is quite often missed by people when “tidying” the car for sale.

What to pay

£2000 – 3000
Look carefully at cars in this price range. Values now levelling out, so there are RS
Turbos cropping up for this kind of money. Look out for turbo’d XR2is masquerading
as the genuine article – fine if you’re told about it, but not s funny when you realise
the fake you’ve bought isn’t worth half as much as you paid.

£3000 – 4000
Spend this kind of money and you’ll have a good example on the drive. It’ll be
straight and honest, but don’t expect it to win any awards. There’s likely to be a fair
few miles and owners on the logbook too. Basically, it’ll be a good used buy that
looks respectable and drives well.

£4000 – 5000
Pay this money and you’ve every right to expect an excellent example in return. Cars
will be very clean with FSH, few owners and low mileage. Watch out for messed
around cars where the vendor’s trying hopelessly to get his money back.

£5000+
A car with this price tag’s either extremely well modded or boasts a string of concours
wins.

REMEMBER: THESE PRICES ARE JUST A GUIDLINE.

Facts

Biggest Rims
Everyone wants 17’s and above, but if you bolt them straight on then you’ll foul the
dampers. The way around this is to fit some spacers, but it’s not the ideal solution. A
safe bet is a 7×16 inch wheel with 195/45 rubber.

Engine Tech
Don’t listen to your mates in the pub when they tell you the Fiesta’s motor was lifted
straight from the Escort RS Turbo. It was based on an Escort short engine assembly
but the camshaft and cylinder head were developed from the XR2i. Other changes
included a different turbo and manifold redesign, plus Ford’s own EEC-IV injection
instead of the Escort’s Bosch KE-Jetronic version.

Price When New
Back in 1991 you were expected to part with £11,950 for an RS Turbo Fiesta

Badge Engineering
Everyone loves the RS insignia, so thank your lucky stars you didn’t buy a blown
Fester abroad – LHD versions came without the RS badging…and that’s a fact !!!!

Contacts and insurance

HPI
A phone call that could save you a lot of grief by confirming the identity of the Fiesta
RS Turbo and whether it’s stolen, a write-off or has outstanding finance. Costs £39.99
from HPI on 01722 422422, £36.99 from the AA on 0800 234999. Don’t just take a
dealers word as well.

Clubs

RS-Ford
www.rs-ford.co.uk

RS Owners’ Club,
PO Box 4044,
Pangbourne,
Reading,
Berks RG8 7XL
Tel: 01189 841583
www.rsownersclub.co.uk

Fiesta Club of GB,
145 Chapel Lane,
Farnborough, GU14 9BN
Contact: Sara Church
Tel: 01276 35422

Insurance
If you’re a 28-year-old electrician living in Reading with three years NCB and a clean
licence, you can insure your standard Cat 1 immobilised £4000 Fiesta RS Turbo for
£645 fully comp with a £250 excess.
If you fit a performance exhaust, different alloys and a chip then the premium will be
£776.25 with a £250 excess.
Quotes provided by Sterling on 08700 777888.
Author: Wayne Phillips – Thanks Wayne!

Body
Type: Three-door hatchback Escort assembled by Karmann from Escort and Sierra
pressing in steel with 50 per cent new panels, bodykit with splitter and bonnet vents.

Colours
Diamond White, Radiant Red, Black, Polaris Grey, Pacifica Blue, Mallard Green

Engine
Type: YBT
Capacity: 1993cc
Bore/stroke: 90.82mm x 76.95mm
Compression ratio: 8:1
Max power: 227 bhp @ 6250 rpm
Max torque: 220 lbf.ft @ 3500 rpm
Cylinders: four, in-line
Cylinder head: alloy
Block: cast iron
Installation: front-mounted, longitudinal
Valve gear: four valves per cylinder, twin belt driven overhead camshaft
Induction: Garrett AiResearch T3 turbo, intercooler, Weber Marelli management system
Transmission
Type: four-wheel-drive
Gearbox: Ford MT75 with transfer box for permanent 4wd using viscous coupling, centre
differential, 34/66 front/rear torque split, viscous coupling, limited-slip rear differential
Internal ratios: 1st, 3.61:1; 2nd, 2.08:1; 3rd, 1.36:1; 4th, 1.1:1; 5th, 0.83:1
Final drive: 3.62:1

Suspension
Front: MacPherson struts, coil springs, telescopic dampers, anti-roll bar
Rear: independent with coil springs, telescopic dampers, anti-roll bar

Steering
Type: power assisted rack-and-pinion

Brakes
System: vacuum servo-assisted dual circuit hydraulic ABS
Front: 278mm ventilated discs
Rear: 273mm ventilated discs

Wheels & Tyres
Wheels: 8×16 in Ford RS Alloys
Tyres: 225/45 ZR rated

Performance
Max speed: 140 mph
0-60 mph: 5.7 sec

What to look for

Identity
You’ll find the VIN numbers on the slam panel and stamped into the floor by the
driver’s seat underneath the sill flap. What you’ll want to see is WFOBBXGKABNG,
which is followed by five numbers.

Bodywork
There shouldn’t be any rust and if there is, it’s probably a result of badly repaired
accident damage. The body is hard to fix after a smash. Look closely at the seams,
panel gaps and paint for poor finishes. The front’s susceptible to stone chips and bank
on buying a new splitter as well. Battery trays and rear spoilers (especially lower one)
can bubble up.

Engine
It’s likely to have had mods and you’ll want to know the details of what’s been done
and by who. If it’s chipped, make your next stop the rolling road. Turbos can also fail
– look for white smoke from the exhaust when you floor it. Always check a car with a
cold engine, as this will show any probs from start-up. Tappet noise, knocking (piston
slap) etc. When started, check the oil pressure dial..should read at least 5 bar from
cold and then sit between minimum and 1.8 bar when warm. Also look for blue smoke
(oil in the engine, gaskets, pistons) and grey smoke (often overfuelling on ignition).
Remember, the Escort has an under engine tray for cooling..so get under there and
check for any oil.

Transmission
The MT75 box is tough provided you don’t get carried away with power. It can
handle up to 375 bhp, but over this and you need to think about stronger internals. The
clutch is slightly weaker and you’ll need an uprated job if the power climbs to 300
bhp+. With the 4wd system, look for any snatchiness and listen carefully for clonks
and bangs. Check CVJs (clicking noises when gone)and also propshaft joint rubbers
can perish.

Suspension
The standard Escort suspension is superb (Group N). On its launch it was labelled one
of the best handling cars. Eight years on and that suspensions likely to be tired and the
dampers can sag. Quite a few owners fitted performance parts, so again, look for
receipts and any signs of dodgy work. Check for cracked top cups – will show with
any knocking noises.

Brakes
Vented 278 mm discs on the front and 273 mm items on the back can stop the
standard 227 bhp, but if you’re running big power its best to uprate them. They can
also warp, but it takes some extreme driving to do this. Check for warped disks (brake
jugger) and sometimes the front knuckles can be damaged, they will then need
replacing. Check rear callipers haven’t seized and brake sharp in test drive to ensure
car stop straight.

Interior
Recaro-equipped interior is generally hard wearing, but it’s the usual story of the
driver’s seat showing the first signs of wear and tear. Getting replacements will be a
nightmare and if you’re thinking of buying a stolen/recovered that’s missing its
interior, it might be wise to think again – unless of course, you’re going for a bit of a
racer look. Check that the leather (if fitted) isn’t cracked..another expensive thing to
replace/repair. Watch for cracks and scuffs on the plastics.

Electrics
Fuse box is used throughout the MkV range..so is pretty rubbish. If the tracks burn out
(causing major electric failure) then a complete new fuse box is needed. Under
passenger side bonnet vent are two multi plugs. These can fill with water due to the
vent design..another problem area. Watch for poorly alarms/immobilisers, especially
connected to the fuel pump. You can melt a piston because of them. In general, check
everything works…EVERYTHING !!!!

What to pay

£8000 – 10,000
Before you start ranting the Escort Cossies never come up at this price, let’s explain.
To an extent you’re right, but what about sourcing you Escy Cos from abroad? It’s
possible to pick up a sound one in Germany for the above price as they’re just not
sought after over there as they are here. Ok, it’ll have left-hand-drive and you’ll have
to go through the drama of a personnel import, but it’s definitely worth a thought.

£12,000 – 13,000
The bottom price you’ll pay for a half decent Escort Cosworth in the UK. It’ll
probably have high mileage and registered on a k-plate. Cars are most likely to be
finished in Diamond White and Radiant Red. Still, it’s got to be one of the best
motors you can buy for £12,000.

£14,000 – 16,000
You’re now entering Lux territory and this kind of wedge is going to get you a good
one.

£17,000+
It’s a lot of cash, but in exchange you’ll have one of the nicest big turbo Escort
Cosworths around. Concours contenders might break £20,000 barrier as will fully
modded examples.

REMEMBER: THESE PRICES ARE JUST A GUIDLINE.

Facts

Down Low
The Escort RS Cosworth was the first mass-produced car that actually had
aerodynamics capable of creating downforce at the front and rear.

Tall Order
The Escort Cosworth is actually a little bit taller than both the standard Escort and the
Sierra.

Roofless
Only the roof panel is shared with the standard Escort.

Plan B
The Escort Cosworth was only given the go-ahead after attempts to facelift the Sierra
failed.

Secret Agent
The Escort Cosworth project was give the name codename ACE.

Contacts and insurance

HPI
A phone call that could save you a lot of grief by confirming the identity of the Escort
RS Cosworth and whether it’s stolen, a write-off or has outstanding finance. Costs
£39.99 from HPI on 01722 422422, £36.99 from the AA on 0800 234999. Don’t just
take a dealers word as well.

Clubs

RS-Ford
www.rs-ford.co.uk

RS Owners’ Club,
PO Box 4044,
Pangbourne,
Reading,
Berks RG8 7XL
Tel: 01189 841583
www.rsownersclub.co.uk

Insurance
This is a total mine-field when it comes to this car. Your best ringing around a lot
(and I mean a lot !!) of insurance brokers to hunt down the best price. Don’t cut
corners though, and make sure you know exactly what you’re insured for.

Author: Wayne Phillips – Thanks Wayne!

Tech Spec

Body
Type: pressed steel monocoque Escort three-door hatchback shell with Ford RS
bodykit including front spoiler and tailgate spoiler.

Colours
Diamond White.

Engine
Type: CVH
Capacity: 1596cc
Bore/stroke: 79.96 mm x 79.52 mm
Compression ratio: 8.3:1
Max power: 132 bhp @ 6000 rpm
Max torque: 133 lbf.ft @ 3000 rpm
Cylinders: four, in-line
Cylinder head: alloy
Block: cast iron
Installation: front-mounted, transverse
Valve gear: two cylinders per head, operated by belt driven overhead camshaft
Induction: Garrett T3 turbo, intercooler, Bosch KE-jetronic fuel injection

Transmission
Type: front-wheel-drive
Gearbox: five-speed Ford manual with 218mm clutch, viscous limited slip differential
Internal ratios: 1st, 3.15:1; 2nd, 1.91:1; 3rd, 1.27:1; 4th, 0.95:1; 5th, 0.76:1
Final drive: 4.27:1

Suspension
Front: MacPherson struts, tie bar arrangement with separate 16mm anti-roll bar
Rear: independent with transverse trailing arms, coil springs, telescopic dampers and
12mm anti-roll bar

Steering
Type: variable-ratio rack-and-pinion

Brakes
System: vacuum servo-assisted dual circuit hydraulic
Front: 240mm ventilated discs
Rear: 203mm drums

Wheels & Tyres
Wheels: seven-spoke RS alloys, 6×15
Tyres: 195/50 VR15

Performance
Max speed: 132 mph
0-60 mph: 7.8 sec
 
 What to look for

Identity
You’ll find the chassis numbers on the front slam panel and stamped directly on the
driver’s side floorplan. On the floorplan it’s hidden under the cut-away carpet and if
there’s any fresh paint or welding in this area then walk away.

Bodywork
Bottom line is you need to check for rust. Check the battery tray, chassis runners
(especially the rear section), front and rear wings (the kit can hide some bad rust),
bulkhead, plus give the scuttle panel a good prod. Another problem is crash damage.
Look for mismatched panel colours, overspray, large panel gaps and wonky filled
patches. Check the car under artificial light for signs of bad re-painting. This is where
street lights are gold mine.

Engine
Even though the CVH is about as tough as they come, turbocharging is still going to
take its toll. Blue smoke from the oil in the chambers is a sure sign of wear and could
mean either piston rings, valve stems, pistons or cylinder bores are up the duff. Blown
head gaskets area risk with modified boost pressures and cam belts will have needed
to be changed fairly often, so ask for some history. Even if its receipts for changed
parts. All goes to verify things..no matter how little.

Transmission
The Series One gearbox was basically a beefed-up version of the XR3i’s. Some
people fit a cheaper XR box when the RST’s original gives up. The only problem with
this is that the car will then be missing the vital LSD that the S1 came with. Other
points of concern are sloppy changes which could be the result of a slack linkage, plus
the synchro mesh isn’t adverse to a bit of stripping.

Suspension
The competition-derived set-up is more than adequate for fast road use, and
aftermarket stuff will detract from the car’s originality and value – unless that’s what
you want. Be cautious of cars that have been lowered too heavily, as their suspension
geometry will be out so much that the ride will be ruined and you’ll go through tyres
like you’re driving on broken glass.

Brakes
The Escort RS Turbo is prone to warping its discs. A lack of feel through the pedal is
not unusual, but watch for shuddering through the steering wheel.

Interior
Shabby Recaros are a big turn off. Getting replacement trim is expensive and timeconsuming
(If you can find any !!!). But if you’re angling for a full leather retrim it’s
not going to bother you that much – of course, you don’t want to tell the person
selling the car this. Also check the carpets…a sure tell-tale sign if the mileage matches
the condition etc. This part is quite often missed by people when “tidying” the car for
sale.

What to pay

Below £2000
Look carefully at cars in this price range. They will need a lot of tidying and quite a
bit of money spent on them. You could end up with a bargain or a complete rust
bucket. Also look out for fakes…if in doubt, double check the chassis numbers and
contact the RS Owners Club. They can verify if its real or not.

£2000 – 3000
Spend this kind of money and you’ll have a good example on the drive. It’ll be
straight and honest, but don’t expect it to win any awards. There’s likely to be a fair
few miles and owners on the logbook too. Basically, it’ll be a good used buy that
looks respectable and drives well.

£4500+
Pay this money and you’ve every right to expect an excellent example in return. Cars
will be very clean with FSH, few owners and low mileage. Watch out for messed
around cars where the vendor’s trying hopelessly to get his money back. Concours
class winners are expected when you reach these prices upwards.

REMEMBER: THESE PRICES ARE JUST A GUIDLINE.

 Facts

Biggest Rims
It is possible to fit quite large rims to the S1. 18’s have been done. However, this will
require some severe arch mods (inc, trimming of the kit). Your better off sticking to
the 15’s or going up one to 16’s. Just get the org. wheels refurbished or
polished…they look the biz.

Engine Tech
Ford took the 1600 CVH and bolted on its own KE-Jetronic fuel injection (unlike the
K-Jetronic found on the XR3i, on which it was based). A T3 blower and intercooler
were added and the internals of the engine beefed up to cope with the pressure of the
forced induction.

Price When New
Back in 1985 you were expected to part with £9,250 + £470 for the Custom Pack.

Contacts and insurance

HPI
A phone call that could save you a lot of grief by confirming the identity of the Escort
RS Turbo and whether it’s stolen, a write-off or has outstanding finance. Costs £39.99
from HPI on 01722 422422, £36.99 from the AA on 0800 234999. Don’t just take a
dealers word as well (unless he has a signed, recent doc from one of the above..then
you can call them to confirm).

Clubs

RS-Ford
www.rs-ford.co.uk

RS Owners’ Club,
PO Box 4044,
Pangbourne,
Reading,
Berks RG8 7XL
Tel: 01189 841583
www.rsownersclub.co.uk
Author: Wayne Phillips – Thanks Wayne!

The new Focus RS has been developed by Ford Team RS team led by Jost Capito who is now Vehicle Line Director for Ford of Europe Performance Vehicles.

With two consecutive Manufacturers’ World Rally Championship titles with new Focus Ford think it is the right time for this new RS.

With the successful Fiesta and Focus ST models, Ford have proved already they can deliver exciting and practical performance road cars. The success of these models, combined with Jost Capito’s experience in motorsport and Ford of Europe’s business results, mean that they have a credible argument for a no-compromise Focus RS for more enthusiastic drivers. Believe me there is a market with the sweet taste of the Escort RS Cosworth still lingering, and second hand values higher than ever. Ford had no problem shifting all the RS stock. 

The official specifications for the new Ford Focus RS are 300bhp from the modified 2.5-litre engine.

The key stats released by Ford are 300bhp, 324lb ft of torque, top speed of 163mph and 0-62mph in 5.9sec. Also a rather strange figure of 30-60mph in fourth gear in just 5.3 seconds.

The Ford Focus RS comes in at a quite a heavy 1467kg, but still manages a combined fuel consumption of 30.5mpg, with 225g/km of CO2.

Wheels are 19-inch alloys with 235/35 Continental tyres.

The Ford Focus RS has Macpherson strut suspension at the front with Ford’s trick RevoKnuckle mounts, which the firm claims helps to eliminate torque steer from the front-drive car – initial reviews confirm the lack of touque steer which is amazing.

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Ford GT40

The Ford GT40

So Ford did it, re-invented a legend from their glory days they built the new GT40, but this one is no dinosaur though it’s capable of destroying the reputation of most supercars available today with 500bhp at it’s disposal. To purists and enthusiast it most have broken the golden rule – it’s over 40″ high but this allows people bigger than pixies to get into it. Visually it looks only slightly different than its ancestor yet looks totally bang up to date look at the picture of the original at the bottom of the screen. Not being ultra low certainly helps the car look more well proportioned and those wheels and the modern lights and subtle changes to the form help immensely.

I saw a road test of the supercar and it doesn’t look retro – it looks fresh, new and firmly puts ford at the top of the tree with this ultimate muscle car. So how does it develop this amount of power? with a supercharger and a 32 valve V8 engine – the downside is a pitiful 4mpg!.

Sadly there are only a small quantity of these beasts coming to the UK ( one of them owned by Jeremy Clarkson lucky sod ) and most will end up hidden from the public in private collections.

Performance
0-60 rolls up in 3.3 seconds.
Top speed 205 Mph

Engine – 5.4L Supercharged V8
Transmission – 6 Speed Manual
Curb Weight 1581 kg

I love the GT40 but will never get a chance to drive this car … it’s the original dream car and thats part of its appeal, I am glad cars like this are still being made, and the project series one can trace it’s lineage back to the original classic back in the 60′s. Keep em coming ford, what’s next the new RS200?

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Making its global debut at the 2010 Leipzig Motor Show in Germany on April 9, the new model has been given the RS500 designation to highlight its strictly-limited production run of 500 individually-numbered vehicles, all of which will be offered for customers to purchase.

The new Focus RS500 features a muscular 350 PS 2.5-litre 5-cylinder engine, which generates 15 per cent more power than the standard Focus RS and delivers truly exhilarating performance.

The RS500’s breathtaking power is matched by an equally dramatic appearance.  The limited edition model sports a unique matt black ‘foil’ paint finish with matching alloy wheels to deliver a powerful visual impact which is unlike any other production Ford.

“We were determined to mark the end of production for the current and acclaimed Focus RS with something even more special,” said Joe Bakaj, Ford of Europe’s vice president for Product Development. “From its stunning looks to its intoxicating performance, we have no doubt that the RS500 will be appreciated and quickly snapped up by performance car enthusiasts.

“This vehicle joins a long line of iconic RS Fords and is a worthy recipient of the RS500 name, which became synonymous with success on the road and track with the legendary Sierra RS500 Cosworth that dominated saloon car racing during the late 1980s,” Bakaj added.