1978 Ford Escort Mk2 RS2000 Custom

Background:

The history of Ford's most famous moniker, 'RS' or Rallye Sport, originated from Ford’s successes in the mid to late-1960s with cars like the Lotus Cortina, the GT, and the Mk1 Escort Twin-Cam models. Seeking to maintain its performance edge, in early 1970, Ford decided to establish a dedicated team for future performance models, leading to the creation of the Ford AVO (Advanced Vehicle Operations) department. Vehicles were then distributed through the Rallye Sport ‘RS’ dealer network. Success came quickly, with the newly introduced RS1600 winning the 16,000 mile London - Mexico World Cup Rally.

In a short space of time, RS models began to dominate both on and off the track, with the Escort Mk1 RS1600, Capri RS2600 and RS3100 claiming three RAC Rally wins and three European Touring titles. In 1975, with the introduction of the Mk2 Escort, the BDA-engined RS1800 began to truly dominate, winning the RAC Rally in consecutive years from 1975 - 1979, as well as securing the 1979 World Rally Championship Drivers’ and Manufacturers’ titles.

As the RS1800 was built primarily for competition purposes, Ford needed an ‘RS’ for the masses. In January 1976, the Escort Mk2 RS2000 was introduced. Powered by a 2-litre SOHC Pinto engine driving the rear wheels through a 4-speed gearbox, the RS2000, with 110bhp and a top speed of nearly 110mph, was easily recognisable to RS enthusiasts thanks to its now iconic Polyurethane nosecone with quad headlamps, known as the ‘Droop Snoot’. Over its five year production run, the RS2000 saw only minor changes, the most significant being in 1978 when Ford began offering the model in two trim levels - the 'basic' model or the 'custom' specification. These trim levels remained available until production ended in 1980, with the introduction of the Mk3 Escort.

The Car:

Registered on 1st August 1978, we are delighted to offer this exceptional, early example of the Ford Escort RS2000 Custom, built to the following specification:

• Matching numbers 2-litre SOHC Pinto engine, mated to a 4-speed manual transmission
• Black paintwork (code A)
• Recaro interior with 'Fish-net' headrests in Black (code A7)
• RS rear spoiler
• 13" RS 4-spoke alloy wheels
• 'Custom' trim level – full door cards, glove box, centre console, clock, driver's side 'remote' mirror adjustment, boot carpet

Owned by a classic car enthusiast and restorer, in 2018 it underwent a comprehensive two-year restoration with a focus on attention to detail. The work included:

• Complete body strip-down with any poor bodywork professionally attended to, ensuring fantastic panel gaps throughout, followed by a bare-shell respray in the correct factory black with clear-coat lacquer. The paint finish is mirror-glass smooth, with a reflection to match, and the underside benefits from correct underbody anti-corrosion protection.
• All mechanical components stripped, checked for wear, and either restored or replaced. The drivetrain has been meticulously detailed, with the exception of an upgraded alloy 'Ford RS' rocker cover and a polished air filter for the twin-choke Weber carburettor.
• Radiator re-core.
• Suspension fully stripped and rebuilt with new shock absorbers, all bushes replaced (many upgraded to Polyurethane), and all joints and bearings checked and replaced as necessary. All components painted or powder-coated.
• Rebuilt braking system, including new discs, pads, calipers, master cylinder, servo, etc.
• New OEM clutch.
• New fuel tank.
• New 'Ashley' exhaust system.
• All fuel lines, brake lines, and hoses replaced.
• New window rubbers and seals.
• 13" RS 4-spoke alloys diamond-cut and fitted with new Firestone tyres.
• Interior completely stripped and reupholstered with new carpets, seat covers, and headlining.
• New RS2000 decals as per factory specification.
• Upgraded Weber carburettor.
• 4-branch manifold.

Used sparingly and dry stored ever since, the car still presents extremely well. It wears four perfect Firestone tyres, with another untouched on the spare wheel. Supplied on the button with a fresh 12 month MOT, it looks stunning, drives wonderfully and is now ready to find its rightful place in any classic car or Ford enthusiast’s Collection.

Summary:

A superbly restored and well-kept RS2000 Custom with an exceptional level of detail.