1970 Ford Escort Mk1 RS1600

The RS1600 was the flagship of the Escort Mk1 range and the model that launched Ford’s domination of world rallying during the 1970s. Developed at Ford’s Advanced Vehicle Operations plant, it combined the Escort’s light and agile chassis with Cosworth’s potent belt-driven BDA engine, setting a new standard for performance and success on both gravel and tarmac.

The example offered here was first registered in 1970 and underwent a comprehensive rebuild in 2016, including a bare-shell restoration, repaint and a full rally conversion to MSUK specification. At its heart is a 1.7-litre Cosworth BDA unit prepared by AGRA Precision Engineering, featuring a dry-sump system, Kent BD3 camshaft, Lumenition ignition and twin Weber 45 DCOE carburettors.

Power is delivered through a 4-speed manual gearbox with helical-cut gears and a needle-roller layshaft thrust bearing, coupled to a Quaife ATB limited-slip differential. Braking is provided by Wilwood front callipers with rear drums, while Bilstein dampers and strengthened suspension bushes ensure dependable handling. A hydraulic handbrake, laminated windscreen, and 13" blue wheels on Vredestein Snowtrac tyres underline the car’s competition focus. Inside, the Escort is fitted with a full roll cage, OMP bucket seats with four-point harnesses, a Safety Devices fire extinguisher, battery master switch, passenger footplate and rally essentials including a window hammer. The wiring was renewed during the restoration, and the underside stripped, repaired and treated with Raptor protective coating to ensure durability.

Having covered a recorded 45,800 miles (not warranted), the car has been dry stored since 2018 within a private collection. A partial engine overhaul was carried out in 2020, including a cambelt replacement, and the Escort has continued to receive attentive maintenance. Its most recent service was completed in June 2024 at 45,763 miles by QPrep, which included new fluids, brake adjustments, wheel bearing setup and a number of renewed components.

The Escort is accompanied by its V5C logbook, RS Owners Club paperwork, MSA papers, photographs from its refurbishment and a file of invoices and service records dating back to the 2016 restoration. The car last passed an MOT in March 2018 without advisories, and as an historic vehicle is now believed to be MOT-exempt.

This Mk1 Ford Escort RS1600 combines rarity, rally pedigree and careful preparation in a package that remains eligible for historic competition or equally enjoyable as a thrilling road car. Well presented, correctly equipped and powered by one of Cosworth’s most charismatic engines, it stands as an exciting opportunity for any collector of classic performance Fords or period competition cars.