1979 Ford Escort RS2000

The RS (Rallye Sport) identity has been an important part of Ford's sporting image for a long time. Over the years, the 'Rallye Sport' name has been applied to 19 spectacular road car models, which often proved their point by winning in races, rallies, in rallycross - and in the marketplace. The 'RS' badge has never been applied lightly, for each and every model and derivative has offered outstanding performance, road holding, vehicle safety and value for money. RS-badged Fords have always shared a proud sporting tradition and have been built in many different forms.

Launched in Jan 1976, the RS2000 was based on the two-door MKII Escort and used a 2-litre in-line four cylinder, SOHC, 'Pinto' engine mounted longitudinally in the bay. The gearbox was bolted to the rear of the engine and power was then fed to the diff by a prop shaft and then in turn to the rear wheels. A single twin venturi 32/36 DGAV Weber carb was fitted with the option of a 'Group 1' dual Weber 40 DCNF or IDF. The front suspension used independent MacPherson struts with an anti-roll bar and the rear suspension used leaf springs with telescopic dampers. Front mounted discs (solid) and rear drums were used and four-spoke alloy wheels came as standard. The most recognisable feature of the Mk2 RS2000 is the `droop snoot` nose.

The RS2000 on offer today was first registered in February 1979 and, although originally Beige, the car is now finished in the much more attractive colour of gloss black with a black interior, following a full bodywork restoration in 2007.The shell was completely stripped, and rebuilt, as was the suspension.

More recently the drive train has benefitted from similar refurbishment with the engine being rebuilt and breathed on to improve performance and drivability. These modifications include a big valve, gas flowed head and a fast road/race camshaft. A five-speed, 'Type 9' gearbox has been fitted with a quick-shift to further improve performance.

The interior has not been left out having been completely re-trimmed by specialist trimmers Aldridge Trimmers. The carpets have also been replaced with new items to complete a really fresh look.

The results are very impressive and the car looks as good today as it would have done tearing around in the 70s and 80s. Supplied with a good history file documenting its restoration and other past maintenance, this is one of the nicest RS2000s we have seen for quite some time. Though not in 100% original specification, this quick Ford has been rebuilt with driving in mind and the driving experience is better for it.