1992 Ford Escort RS Cosworth - Ex-Jeremy Clarkson

The Escort RS Cosworth was an 'homologation special' and its sole role was to incorporate parts that Ford planned to use in their rally cars to ensure success in International Rallying. Because it was smaller, lighter and more nimble than any of the Sierras, the combination of Cosworth power, four-wheel drive transmission and an effective aerodynamic package made it a Rally Giant in all conditions. Success duly followed between 1993 and 1998 in the World Rally Championship for manufacturers, but the road cars were very rare - with just 2,500 'homologation special' versions made, becoming known as 'big turbo cars', all capable of 150mph and easily identified by the aptly named 'Whale Tail' rear spoiler.

This particular Ford Escort RS Cosworth is extremely well known within Blue Oval circles, not just because it was once Jeremy Clarkson's daily steed, but more importantly because it is one of just three Prototype pre-production, hand-built, examples that, at the time, were rumoured to have cost in excess of £250,000 to produce, with a slightly different specification from standard production models that included 'Catalytic Converter Delete' for some unknown reason. Finished in Mallard Green with a Raven Hide interior, the Escort is in superb condition throughout retaining much originality and even the original Ford Motor Company registration, K38 FMC, remains assigned. The underside still has its original factory sealant in place and clearly shows that no rectification work has taken place.

Never one to miss a marketing opportunity, Ford offered the car on loan to Jeremy Clarkson for a 12 month period for evaluation purposes and it featured in many reports at the time. It was subsequently offered as a competition prize in Top Gear Magazine which included free insurance for a 12 month period, something that will not have been cheap at the time for the renowned hot hatchback. In 2000, the Escort once again fell into Jeremy's hands to be featured in his TV programme, Clarkson’s Car Years, where they were filmed driving over 'Buttertubs Pass' in North Yorkshire during which time Jeremy stated 'One of my all time favourite roads meets one of my all time favourite cars, the Cossie'.

More recently, the present long-term owner has carried out a full brake and suspension overhaul, fitted a brand new set of NOS genuine wheels and centre caps and improved the superb interior with a new headlining. With very minor mechanical enhancements the Escort RS is now ready to be enjoyed once again and ready for its next journey over that North Yorkshire Pass.