1985 Ford Escort Series 1 RS Turbo Custom
(Featured on 12th April 2013)
Make: Ford
Model: Escort
Year: 1985
Mileage: 17,523
Sellers original description:
A meticulous Ford Escort Series 1 RS Turbo Custom with just 17,523 miles and comprehensive history file.
Model History:
The Series 1 Escort RS Turbo was carefully developed by Ford’s talented Special Vehicle Engineering team whose other resounding successes include the Capri 2.8 Injection and the XR3. The RS Turbo was designed to set new standards in Group N and Group A events, and was quickly dubbed the car the beat. Ford initially planned to build 5,000 RS Turbos, the minimum number required for homologation in Group A, however a total of 8,604 were built due to increased demand. The car was greeted with huge enthusiasm and was only sold through official Rallye Sport dealers. A following that today has amassed into obsession for many a diehard Ford enthusiast.
Equipment:
Colour coded bumpers with front over riders, laminated windscreen and all round safety glass, RS aerodynamic front and rear spoilers, RS Turbo decals, Ford spot lamps, remote control colour coded door mirrors, colour coded ‘Orion’ radiator grille, RS 3 spoke steering wheel, 2 speed plus intermittent wipers, tailgate wash wipe, Ford RS interior with Recaro sports reclining seats, head restraints, side window demisters, perforated headlining, coat hooks, vanity mirror on passenger sun visor, cigar lighter, rear ashtrays, front door stowage bins, 3-speed heater fan, coin box, radio cassette, trip recorder, tachometer, roof mounted digital clock. Factory specified Custom Pack includes electric windows, central locking, tilt/slide glass sunroof and opening rear quarter windows.
Exterior:
The exterior of this RS Turbo is magnificent and unique in its true factory unspoilt condition. The original and unrestored finish to the Diamond White (code B3) paintwork is exceptional with a brilliant bright and pure shine. There is a small area on the lower corner of the driver’s door where the paint is slightly chipped, barely visible. Due to fastidious event preparation and polishing there are two tiny areas where the paint has thinned, the tip of the passenger front wing and the lower section of the rear wheel arch extension. These must be considered as only very minor and localised imperfections which in no way detract from the overall outstanding condition of this car. All the factory fit panels are intact and perfect, and all exterior trim is in excellent order as is the glass, lights, decals and badges. An extraordinary opportunity to own a slice of Ford RS history, simply superb.
Interior:
The interior of this RS Turbo is perfect and pristine. Finished in original two-tone grey Monza crushed velour (code HC), the seat pads and bolsters are beautiful and show no sign of wear. The door cards and carpets are in remarkable, factory fresh condition. The original perforated headlining is tight and free from marks and discolouration. The dashboard has remained completely free from cracks, an otherwise common issue with MK3 Escorts. The RS 3 spoke steering wheel still has all the delicate grains and veins. All interior equipment is functional and the trim pieces intact, including the immaculate rear parcel shelf. There are some minor scuff marks to the centre console around the handbrake and gear lever. The original factory Ford radio cassette remains in the car. A fastidious preserved 1980’s Ford RS interior.
Engine & Transmission:
Fitted with Fords 1596cc turbocharged Compound Valve Hemispherical chamber (CVH) unit, producing 132BHP at 6000rpm, mated to the Bosch KE Jetronic Fuel Injection System. Turbocharged power delivery courtesy of a Garrett T03 turbo, the car accelerates smoothly to a maximum speed of 128mph and achieves 0-60 in 8.1 seconds. The engine produces a delightful note through the standard and original exhaust system. Front wheel drive 5 speed synchromesh gearbox with 4.27:1 final drive ratio. The gear changes are light and absolutely precise allowing both subtle and enthusiastic driving, a pleasure to operate. Perfect in every respect and in accordance with the low miles covered.
Wheels, Tyres & Brakes:
The original 15 X 6 inch RS seven spoke alloy wheels are spotless and shod with the original factory fitted Michelin MXV 195/50 VR15 tyres, with excellent tread remaining. A professional refurbishment is evident. Diagonally split hydraulic circuits with tandem master cylinder, vacuum servo assistance and 240mm ventilated discs up front and 203.2mm rear drums bring the car to an assuring halt.
History File:
This remarkable example has led a very cosseted and pampered existence. The car has had five former RS enthusiast keepers, and has only ever formed part of truly cherished collections. A history file containing previous MOT’s and invoices help support the incredible low mileage of just 17,523 and indicate the level of care this wonderful car has clearly received. Many magazine features are included in the history file and personal notes between owners including receipts for amounts paid. All original handbooks, service books and even Ford optional extras literature held within the blue A5 Ford wallet form part of the comprehensive history file. A full set of keys remain with the vehicle and correctly fit all locks and ignition.
This vehicle will appeal to a serious collector wanting an incredibly well preserved, unmolested example of a truly legendary Ford icon, exactly how the manufacturer intended.
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