1985 Ford Escort RS Turbo Series 1

Based on lessons learned with the S1, the S2 Escort RS Turbo (produced between 1986-1990) was more suited to daily use, whereas the earlier car was a bit of a homologation special. Many new features were adopted for the Series 2 including utilising the 1600cc fuel-injected CVH engine taken from the S1 Turbo but now fitted with the Garret T3 turbo (water-cooled, unlike the S1), revised engine management settings, lower overall gearing, an improved gearbox and limited-slip differential, a larger clutch and improved KE-Jetronic unit and inter-cooler. Suspension and chassis changes included stiffer front and rear springs, uprated anti-roll bars, mechanical ABS and larger brakes. The S2 produced an impressive 132bhp at 5750rpm, with maximum torque of 133lb/ft produced at 2750rpm, offering ample performance with a top speed of 125mph and a 0-60mph time of 8.3 seconds. Although on paper these figures were a tad down on the Series 1, the new car was considerably easier to drive quickly and, effectively, was a faster car.

Having spent recent years in storage due to our vendors late father’s health meaning he wasn’t able to drive it, the car has been very nicely looked after and cared for in a temperature-controlled environment. This kind of treatment is now common for these cars, however, this car being the late vendors pride and joy means it was always treated with a level of respect that the average Fast Ford is not accustomed to.

Purchased new by its only ever custodian in 1985 and supplied by Hendy Lennox, this early example presents well in the traditional S1 RS Turbo colour scheme of Diamond White over a grey Recaro interior. Whilst it remains largely original, a few minor upgrades were made including new coolant pipework due to the original rubbers perishing and a stainless steel backbox. According to our vendor there is a selection of various original parts from the car that remain in the boot which should originality be paramount. Routinely serviced and looked after, the history on the car is good, but as is customary for cars going into long-term storage, there are some expected gaps and patches where it hasn’t moved or been MOT’d. Running and driving nicely, but with a few small imperfections as is to be expected with a car of this era, it can be used and enjoyed exactly as is or fully sorted and tidied up to a fabulous condition without too much stress.

With Sierras, Escorts and now the inevitable Focus all seeing substantial increases in value in recent years, the market for Performance Fords from this period never seems to cool down, particularly from single ownership. This lovely example would be equally at home within any collection of nostalgic 80s 'rocket-ships' or being driven and enjoyed as all cars should be.