1989 Ford Escort RS Turbo

Based on the success of the original model, the Series 2 Escort RS Turbo (produced between 1986-1990) was more suited to daily use, the earlier RS having been a bit of an 'homologation special' and less refined. Many new features were introduced for the S2 including utilising the 1,600cc, fuel-injected, CVH engine taken from the S1 Turbo but now fitted with the Garrett T3 turbo (water-cooled, unlike the S1), revised engine management settings, lower overall gearing, an improved gearbox and limited-slip differential, a larger clutch and improved KE-Jetronic unit and inter-cooler. Suspension and chassis changes included stiffer front and rear springs, uprated anti-roll bars, mechanical ABS and larger brakes.

The S2 produced an impressive 132bhp at 5,750rpm, with maximum torque of 133lb/ft produced at 2,750rpm, offering ample performance with a top speed of 125mph with 0-60mph in 8.3 seconds and although on paper these figures were a tad down on the Series 1, the new car was considerably easier to drive allowing quicker progress.

Offered here at the Silverstone Festival is this remarkable two owner Escort RS Turbo, supplied new by Ford main agent Godfrey Davis in St Albans and finished in Diamond White with a Shadow Grey interior. Paperwork shows the RS registered to its first keeper in August 1989 with a 24 month,18,000 mile extended cover agreement. The second owner purchased the RS as a used car from the supplying agent, Godfrey Davis in March 1992 paying the sum of £7,200 including one year’s warranty. Amazingly, the RS remained with him for over three decades before being released into the trade network. We are informed that during this tenure of custodianship, he refused to use the Turbo in the wet, keeping his cherished classic Ford in a dry, temperature controlled storage.

On close inspection, the Escort presents beautifully with gleaming paintwork, excellent shut lines and a virtually flawless 1990s interior. It wears a matching pair of Godfrey Davies period number plates and shows only minimal wear to the driver’s seat bolster and inner door handles as is to be expected with a wholesome, genuine example showing just over 67,000 miles.

It's accompanied by its original book pack, service book, purchase invoices, V5C registration document, numerous old MOT certificates and a host of other service receipts and invoices. For the next owner's peace of mind, it will be presented to auction with a fresh MOT.

Ultra low-mileage Series 2 RS Turbos are now commanding sums north of £50,000 as they are being squirreled away into private Collections. This is a collector grade example with sensible miles and can therefore be enjoyed without the guilt of watching the speedo tick over every mile. We welcome any enquiry or inspection on this beautiful classic RS.