1979 Ford Escort Mk2 RS2000 Custom

It was back in 1970 that Ford introduced their Rally Sport models - the RS range. Originally designed as a way of building limited numbers of homologation specials for serious competition use, it soon grew into a major marketing opportunity and one that Ford grabbed with both hands. By 1976, when the RS2000 Mk2 was launched, the term 'RS' had grown to mean something a bit special.

Unlike the Mk1 Escort which was designed by Ford of Great Britain, the Mk2 was a much more sophisticated design that was jointly developed with Ford of Germany. Based on a standard Mk2 two-door saloon shell, the RS2000 used the familiar 2-litre, inline 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 40DCNF 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 4-spoke alloy wheels came as standard. Its biggest distinguishing feature was a '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 late 1978, the Custom Pack became an option and included Fishnet Recaro seats, full door cards, clock and pod centre console, 6J x 13" alloys, boot carpet, remote drivers door mirror and the back panel around the rear lights was painted black.

The subject of an older restoration and now offered from long term ownership, this particular Escort RS2000 Custom has clearly been cherished over the years and still presents extremely well today. Finished in Diamond White with a black interior, the colour scheme beloved by Blue Oval aficionados, the Escort has now been enhanced with a rear disc brake conversion in place of the original drums and the suspension has been upgraded.

In recent years, the RS has been in safe and secure storage but has been cared for as required and we are told that it is running and driving well, ready for its next custodian to use and enjoy as intended. Unfortunately there is little paper work to accompany the car but we do suggest that the quality speaks for itself and welcome your early inspection to satisfy yourself as to the opportunity on offer.