Ford Rs Escorts

The Escort RS Cosworth, which started rallying in 1993, was one of the most ingenious designs of all time, and eventually became Ford's most successful since the legendary Escorts of the 1970s. Because it was smaller, lighter, and more nimble than any of the Sierras, the combination of Cosworth power, four-wheel-drive transmission, and an effective aerodynamic package made it a Rally Giant in all conditions. With five World victories in its first season, and success all around the world in later years, it was seen in every continent, in all conditions. To meet a change in regulations, the Escort World Rally Car took over in 1997, and also enjoyed years of success.

The story of the Ford 'RS' Escorts is that of a highly successful range of cars that remained in production for almost thirty years and which started as an idea in a manner that has almost passed into legend. From the Twin Cam Escort of 1968 through the Escort Mexico, the RS1600 and RS2000, up to the Escort RS Cosworth and RS2000 4x4 of the late 1990s, motoring author and confirmed Escort enthusiast, Graham Robson, tells the whole story of these fine cars in this new paperback edition.

When Ford teamed up with Cosworth Engineering to breathe life onto its humdrum Sierra, few knew it would be the birth of a motoring legend. Through circuit racing and supercar-humbling on-road ability, the 1985 Sierra RS Cosworth quickly became a household name. A practical four-seater boasting 204bhp from its two-liter turbocharged power plant, the RS Cosworth's massive performance was equaled only by an extroverted rear wing designed for high-speed stability . While motorsport machines scooped innumerable victories and increasingly powerful engines, in 1987 Ford homologated a yet-more-spectacular Sierra - the 224bhp RS500. It instantly became a desirable collector's piece. The restrained four-door Sierra Sapphire RS Cosworth of 1988 was Ford's vision of a 150mph executive express; two years later, its four-wheel-drive successor returned the firm to rallying. By 1992, Ford had squeezed the 4x4's running gear into a shorter Escort body, complete with 227bhp engine and ever-more-aggressive aerodynamic aids. The limited-edition Monte Carlo came in 1994, followed by the final RS Cosworth - a revised Escort with smaller turbocharger and user-friendly appeal. Production ceased in 1996. Today, each model has a loyal following among motorsport fans and fast Fords enthusiasts. And as the cars become increasingly sought-after, so too does the pursuit of perfection. This book examines RS Cosworth authenticity, outlining standard specifications alongside in-depth color photography of outstanding examples of the breed. From body panels and trim to turbochargers and tires; from interior fabrics and paint schemes to shock absorbers and stickers, Ford's factory-original fitments are covered in comprehensive detail.

Ford’s legendary Sierra and Escort RS Cosworths changed the face of performance road cars, making them as desirable to keen drivers as they are to classic collectors. This quick-reference guide acts as a handy pocket-sized companion during the purchasing process. It aims to help buyers select the best car, pay the right price, and avoid the potential pitfalls. This one-stop package of great advice includes at-a-glance tips, illustrated in-depth inspection guidance, specifications, notes on modifications, and real-world cost considerations.

The Ford Escort RS Cosworth and RS1600i by Unique Motor Books.