1994 Ford Escort Cosworth 2.0 Lux

The Ford Escort RS Cosworth proved that it was possible to follow its legendary 1980s Sierra namesake. Just like the Lancia Integrale and Subaru Impreza, this was a Group A rally car for the road - pure and simple. It was actually underpinned by a shortened version of the Sierra Cosworth RS Cosworth's platform and powered by the same 2.0-litre turbocharged longitudinally-mounted Cosworth-developed engine driving all four wheels. The car was designed and engineered in Boreham, was styled by noted designer Stephen Harper, and ended up being assembled by Karmann in Germany.

At launch in 1994, two models were available, the club-spec standard car at £21,380 and the Lux version, which included electric windows, heated screen, sunroof, and Recaro seats. Power was up slightly from the Sierra RS Cosworth, at 227bhp, and performance consequently improved. The first 2500 cars up to May 1994 suffered from turbo lag, but the the next 4500 were improved thanks to their smaller Garrett T25 Turbo. In 1995, the RS Cosworth was treated to a mild facelift where it received a new honeycomb grille, restyled bumpers, a more attractive fascia and revised alloy wheels. The car continued until early 1996, when emissions regulations forced it out of production. Like pretty much every RS Ford, it was a classic from the moment it was built...

Described as being a superb example of Fords legendary Escort Cosworth that has led a very pampered life in the hands of its current owner, the mileage of just under 48500 is warranted by MOTs going back to 1997. The original Ford service book indicates a RS specialist last serviced the car in June of last year and also fitted 4 new tyres at the same time.

The 2.0 litre petrol turbo charged engine fires readily from cold with no blue smoke or nasty knocks or rattles. All levels are clean and fresh and all hoses are clean and supple. It drives both smoothly and swiftly with nicely weighted steering and firm brakes that track both straight and true. All electrics and gauges work perfectly and when warm the temperature gauge sits at exactly half way and never moves.

Externally the Mallard Green bodywork is reported to be very straight, the gloss of its paintwork is deep and the shut lines and gaps are reassuringly symmetrical and narrow, likewise the interior is a superb place to be, the leather is clean and supple and both seats retain their shape and supportiveness and the rear seats appear unused. It's likely that Escort Cosworths will rise in value like their Sierra Cosworth cousins, and this surely is one of the best examples available.

Sold with a new MOT this has to be one of the nicest Escort Cosworths around, if you had one and miss it or always promised yourself one, then don't miss out on this beautiful example.