1996 Ford Escort RS Cosworth Lux

The Ford Escort RS Cosworth proved that it was possible to follow its legendary 1980's Sierra namesake. Just like the Lancia Integrale and Subaru Impreza, this was a Group A rally car for the road - pure and simple. It was actually underpinned by a shortened version of the Sierra Cosworth RS Cosworth's platform and powered by the same 2.0-litre turbocharged longitudinally mounted Cosworth-developed engine driving all four wheels. The car was designed and engineered in Boreham, was styled by noted designer Stephen Harper, and ended up being assembled by Karmann in Germany. The potential of the Escort was seen in its first event, the 1993 Monte Carlo Rally, where Delecour and Biasion came second and third respectively. The Escort continued to be very competitive throughout the '93 and '94 season but it was a 'one off' guest drive by Tommi Makinen that provided the win on the 1994 1000 Lakes Rally. Importantly, and true to Ford's grass roots philosophy, the Escort Cosworth provided a platform for National Rallying and Club enthusiasts throughout the world to enjoy 'off the shelf' competitive support.

At its retail launch in 1994, two models were available, the 'Club-spec' standard car at £21,380 and the more optioned 'Lux' version. Power was up slightly from the Sierra RS Cosworth, at 227bhp, and performance consequently improved. The first 2,500 cars up to May 1994 suffered from turbo lag, but the next 4,500 were improved thanks to their smaller Garrett T25 Turbo. In 1995, the RS Cosworth was treated to a mild facelift when it received a new honeycomb grille, restyled bumpers, a more attractive fascia and revised alloy wheels. The car continued until early 1996 when emissions regulations effectively ended its viability. Like pretty much every RS Ford, it was a classic from the moment it was built.

N616 HLB is presented in Imperial Blue and is in outstanding condition. This is as near to the original specification as you will find, retaining all of its original features including, orange indicators, middle and lower splitter, the correct radio/cd player, original tyre change kit and all of its original Ford badging. This Cosworth has benefitted from not having any modifications whatsoever, and so will appeal to the purists out there. The car is accompanied by its original Ford Manuals, a full history from new, and has been enjoyed by three previous owners during its 34,700 miles. The paintwork has just been detailed showing the striking Imperial Blue at its best, and we thoroughly recommend viewing this well-presented, classic 'Fast Ford'.