2003 Ford Focus RS Mk1 - 13,500 Miles

In 2002, Ford reignited the passion for high-performance 'Hot Hatches' by introducing the Focus RS, marking the return of the renowned RS badge to its lineup for the first time since the Ford Escort RS Cosworth. Drawing inspiration from Colin McRae's thrilling WRC rally exploits, the new Focus RS featured a 2-litre Duratec RS engine equipped with an advanced turbocharging system and oil-spray cooled pistons, achieving an impressive 215bhp and propelling the car from 0-60mph in just 6.4 seconds. To ensure optimal front-wheel drive performance, the chassis was meticulously developed and fitted with a Quaife torque-biasing differential. The suspension system was enhanced with uprated, offset coil springs and Sachs Racing dampers, whilst Brembo brakes provided superior stopping power. The competition-inspired cabin boasted leather and Alcantara Sparco seats and the exterior design took several cues from the WRC rally car, including custom 18" O.Z. racing alloy wheels. This combination of rally-bred engineering and striking design made the Focus RS a standout in the world of high-performance hatchbacks.

The Focus RS we have on offer here was supplied new by Thornbury Motors Ford Dealers and first registered in early September 2003. During its primary custodianship, the RS was clearly well looked after as can be seen from the service records, older MOTs and tax discs within the car's history file. All servicing and maintenance between 2003 and 2022 (original owner) was diligently carried out by Thornbury Motors with seven stamps in the service book at 4,420, 7,648, 9,487, 10,633, 11,834, 12,205 and 12,331 miles. In addition to the Thornbury servicing, the car was recently treated to a full service, including belts, at Norris Motorsport, experts in RS Fords, particularly the early Mk1 Focus RS.

It's finished in Imperial Blue, as they all were, with the Sparco front seats trimmed in contrasting black and blue leather with Alcantara inserts. The rear seats are similarly trimmed and appear to have never been sat in. The handbrake and gear knob are finished in machined aluminium and the interior is further enhanced by the addition of the carbon fibre centre console surround to the gear stick and blue-trimmed inserts in the door cards.

Supplied with the car are a pair of correct RS key fobs. These often degrade over time, however in this case they are fine. The paintwork is impressive, retaining a deep shine and it's no surprise to see that the car is accompanied by a soft, RS-tailored car cover. Also included with the car are a number of other RS-branded items including seat and dash covers and even some jackets and a race/rally fire suit.

Described by EVO magazine as 'a blisteringly quick and rewarding machine', the Mk1 Ford Focus RS has established itself as a very desirable member of Ford's iconic hot hatch family, combining phenomenal pace, purposeful styling and engrossing handling and this superbly presented, collector-quality example would sit well in any Collection of modern classic Performance Fords.