1979 Ford Escort RS2000 Custom

• Hugely original and unrestored, with just one (titled) owner from new
• Just 64,450 miles indicated and in a commensurate condition. Drives superbly
• Recently recommissioned with a new timing belt, brakes and clutch assembly
• Accompanied by a large history file and its original book-pack
• In 1978, an RS2000 Custom was an extremely aspirational purchase, with the distinctive polyurethane droop snoot front end and air dam, plus a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, SOHC, Pinto engine, offering 0-60mph in just 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 108mph

Unlike the Mk1 Escort, which was designed by Ford of Great Britain, the Mk2 was a much more sophisticated design jointly developed with Ford of Germany. Based on a standard Mk2 two-door saloon shell, the RS2000 used the familiar 2-litre, four-cylinder, SOHC, Pinto engine mounted longitudinally in the bay driving the rear wheels. A single twin-venturi 32/36 DGAV Weber carburettor was fitted with the option of a Group 1 dual Weber 40 DCNF or IDF set up. The front suspension used independent MacPherson struts with an anti-roll bar and at the rear, traditional leaf springs with telescopic dampers were utilised. Front-mounted discs and rear drums were used, and four-spoke alloy wheels came as standard. Its biggest distinguishing feature was the droop snoot polyurethane nose housing four headlamps which gave it a rather aggressive look. The new car was capable of 110mph with 0-60mph taking 8.9 seconds, not too shabby in 1976, and which combined with the car's distinctive looks and that shiny RS badge, set Ford's showroom doors swinging.

In September 1978, Ford introduced the RS2000 'Custom' which came fitted with 'Fishnet' Recaro seats, full door cards, clock and pod, centre console, 6Jx13