1974 Ford Escort RS2000 MkI

The Escort RS2000 was the last car to be introduced to the AVO production range, introduced in the June of 1973. The car fitted nicely into the AVO range with its performance almost comparable to the complex RS1600, but with the reliability and ease of maintenance as the Mexico. The car used the same type 49-body shell as the Mexico and RS1600. Fortunately, there was a new engine in use at ford, the 2-litre overhead cam pinto design, which Ford then decided to use instead. Fords then had the major problem to persuade the new bulky pinto engine to fit into the engine bay, which was something it had never been meant to do. The only way of achieving this was by discarding the engine driver cooling fan and replacing it with a thermostatically controlled Kenlowe fan. The engine produced 100bhp (2bhp more than in the Cortina).

The gearbox was the German type e-box and was totally different from the RS1600. They used a final drive of 3.54:1. The car was launched in England on 11th October 1973 priced at £1586.

This particular Mk1 RS2000 was restored by 'Tick Over' of Dartford in Kent and can be seen on their website homepage of vehicles they have restored over recent years. The vendor informs us that OGS 396M bursts instantly into life with the first twist of the key. The four speed manual is reported to be a delight to use, offering tight responsive shifts. The car surges forward with the slightest tap of the throttle pedal, but remains very manageable at all times. Everything feels tight and well put together, with no rattles or groans in evidence anywhere. Handling is reported to be super tight and responsive making this car drive superbly.

The restoration has been carried out to a very high standard, panel fit is superb throughout, the chrome work is bright and untarnished, and the doors open and close with a solid thud with no sign of droop or misalignment. Internally the mileometer has a reading of just under 85500 miles, the cloth seats are in excellent order and are complimented by superb door cards and carpet set.

This RS 2000 boasts an exceptionally well presented engine bay, suggesting that the engine rebuild has been carried out to the same high standard as the bodywork. Wiring is neat and tidy all round, as is the engine bay, so the new owner can display this car with pride at any car show. In beautiful condition and sold with an MOT until October 2015, this is another rare and classic Ford now being recognised by the classic car world.