*** Interested parties should note, this vehicle was subject to a CAT N insurance loss in 03/2021 ***

Highlights

1 of 500 4WD models produced
One of the rarest RS models ever produced
2.0-litre 16-valve
Original Recaro interior
Recently serviced

The Appeal

Developed by Ford, the Escort RS2000 was already considered a rare and highly desirable car, with only around 2,000 units being produced. The 4x4 variant was specifically created to meet homologation requirements, with just 500 examples manufactured, making it one of the rarest RS models ever built.

Incorporating the MT75 gearbox from the Sierra, Ford engineers mounted it transversely in the Escort. To enhance the car’s performance, they upgraded the clutch, fitted stiffer springs and dampers, and added thicker anti-roll bars. A bespoke independent rear suspension setup was also designed to accommodate the drivetrain components.

With only 500 examples ever produced, it’s clear that you don’t see many of these cars come up for auction today. This makes it an ideal opportunity for Ford RS enthusiasts or collectors of sought-after 90s hot hatches to secure a truly rare piece of automotive history.

The History and Paperwork

V5C is present
Registered 4th May 1996
Two keys plus the red key
Original owner manuals are present
Service booklet
The current MOT is valid until 30th August 2025
The car is listed as a Category N
The damage was a replacement headlight, wing, and minor repair to the bumper

The Condition

Desirable metallic green
The paintwork generally presents well
There are some minor blemishes in keeping with the Escort’s age
The bottom of the off-side appears to have been repainted and blended into the wing. However, you can see a line just above the 4x4 badge
Both headlights have some light condensation but appear to be free from any cracks in the lenses
Original Hella fog lights are in good condition
All of the panel gaps appear to be even
There are no dings or dents to mention when looking down the side of the car
The red rear lights look great against the metallic green and are damage-free to the lenses
The rubber sealing strips around the rear lights have started to perish slightly
The windows have some light age-related scratches
There is some corrosion within the window seals, and some have started to shrink slightly, purely due to age
The five-spoke alloy wheels are in good condition, with just a couple of very minor marks
All of the tyres have a good amount of tread remaining
The Raven Flow Recaro trim on the seats is in very good condition, with just very light wear on the driver’s bolster
Both door cards are in good condition; however, the material has shrunk slightly and pulled away from the edge
The dashboard is in good condition with no damage
The white-faced instruments are working correctly and show 94,787 on the odometer
The switchgear is all in good order and reportedly working as it should
The original 6000 CD head unit is in place
There is some damage to the base of the gear knob, but it is a relatively easy item to replace
The carpets throughout are in good condition, with additional mats fitted
The Alcantara headlining is in good condition, but the sunroof cover has come loose
A rare sight in a car from the 90s is a parcel shelf with no speaker holes cut into it
Inside the boot is clean and tidy, with the spare wheel and jack in place

The Mechanics

2.0-litre 16-valve engine
Produces approximately 148bhp
Five-speed gearbox and four-wheel drive
36/66 front-to-rear torque split
The engine starts up without hesitation, and the vendor reports that it runs and drives with no issues
A recent service has been carried out by the vendor
Some front suspension parts have been replaced by the vendor, which were causing a knock
The car is now reported to drive with no knocking
It comes to a stop in a straight line and with no juddering through the pedal
The underside has recently been undersealed to help protect it from the elements

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

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