Praise the Ford: stunning Mk1 Escort RS1600 up for auction

An extremely rare 1971 Mk1 Ford Escort RS1600 is currently listed for auction on the Car & Classic website. 

Along with being a highly desirable classic fast Ford, this particular Escort has enviable provenance. 

Following a complete glass-out restoration process, the RS1600 Custom is likely to attract serious bidders. The expected sale price is around £65,000.

Maize in Essex

Launched in 1970, the Mk1 Escort RS1600 was designed to keep Ford competitive in motorsport. It featured the first example of the Cosworth BDA engine, a relative of the company’s FVA Formula 2 unit. 

Producing 115hp and 112lb ft of torque, it allowed the rear-wheel drive RS1600 to accelerate from 0-60mph in 8.5 seconds. 

A strengthened ‘Type 49’ bodyshell was one of the main changes for the RS1600, along with upgraded suspension. 

It would take a keen enthusiast to spot the performance on offer, however, as this rapid Escort still wore 13-inch steel wheels with chrome hubcaps.

An original Beta interior

The example up for auction was prepared by Ford’s Advanced Vehicle Operations (AVO) division in Aveley, Essex. Finished in bold Maize Yellow paint, which has been replicated as part of the restoration, it also boasts rare Beta-trimmed sports seats. 

Although the seats have been re-upholstered, the interior retains the original six-dial dashboard and has never even had a radio fitted. 

Once completed, the RS1600 was passed to Ford’s press fleet to act as a demonstrator. It means Ford Motor Company is recorded as the first owner, with the ‘LVX’ number plate the same prefix as seen on the Blue Oval’s works rally cars. 

A ‘Show Unit’ stamp on the build plate confirms this car was built for press use.

A truly special Ford RS

After its time with Ford, the RS1600 went to Northern Ireland, where it has remained for 50 years. An extensive history will be provided with the car, including the original green logbook showing Ford as the first owner. 

Combined with the extensive restoration process, which saw the BDA engine fully refurbished, it makes for an incredibly desirable classic car. 

Fast Fords are always in demand, but this particular example is more special than most. Expect plenty of bids before the auction ends on Car & Classic.

ALSO READ:

Ford Escort tops list of most-wanted classic cars

‘Dominant’ 1990 Ford Sierra RS500 racers to be reborn

XR: The Fast Fords that defined an era