1995 Ford Escort RS Cosworth - A Unique Example

Performance Fords are our thing here at Iconic Auctioneers. We love them and their enthusiastic owners and occasionally we get a chance to offer something rather special from Ford's motorsport-based back catalogue. Introduced in 1992, the Escort RS Cosworth was an homologation special and its sole role was to incorporate parts that Ford planned to use in their 'Group A' rally cars to ensure success in the World Rally Championship.

Ford’s Special Vehicle Engineering (SVE) division managed to squeeze the workings of the Sierra Cosworth into the marketing-friendly Escort bodyshell and, hey presto, we had the Escort Cosworth. The enormous rear wing, front splitter and widened body panels all served a purpose too, being designed to assist the car at the high speeds it was expected to reach in rallying.

They were built in their thousands, so the chances of finding a unique, factory-built car must be zero. Well no, actually, you are looking at one.

N104 SVV was ordered through Ford’s Special Vehicle Operations by Cosworth Engineering in October 1995 for the sole use of their Financial Director at the time, Victor Smith. The car was to be finished in Zinc Yellow, the only right-hand drive example in this colour scheme to roll off the production line ever and Cosworth were to retain it for the next 30 or so years.

One look at the condition and it's clear to see that it has led a very cherished life, remaining in outstanding condition throughout with just 29,034 miles recorded at the time of viewing. Even the suppling dealer, E Ward (Wellingborough) Ltd dealer sticker and tax disc holder ae still in place. Open the door, hatchback or the bonnet and the condition remains the same, taking you back to a time when the RS badge had real cachet, with its Raven leather Recaros, cassette player and sunroof.

As it was one of the last Escort Cosworths produced, it's the 'small turbo' model, one of the most desirable and given that it is in exceptional condition throughout and unique in its presentation, it is possibly one of the most collectable Escorts to come to market in recent years. The car has just been serviced in preparation for the sale including a cambelt and brake overhaul, and the original exhaust is available should the new owner wish to retain it.

With an unquestionable history and documented ownership from new, this particular 'Performance Ford' will be a very welcome addition to any Blue Oval Collection. Your early inspection is welcomed and encouraged to fully appreciate the condition and rarity of this particular RS Cosworth.