Background:

The Ford Escort RS Cosworth stands as one of the most iconic homologation specials of the 1990s. Based on the fifth-generation European Ford Escort, this high-performance machine was purpose-built to meet Group A regulations for the World Rally Championship (WRC), where it competed from 1993 to 1998.

First released to the public in 1992 and sold through 1996, the RS Cosworth was far from a typical Escort. Beneath its aggressive, rally-inspired bodywork lay a unique powertrain setup exclusive to this model: a longitudinally mounted Cosworth YBT engine. This turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four produced a formidable 224 bhp, offering both road-going thrills and motorsport pedigree. Highly tunable, the engine became a favourite among enthusiasts and tuners alike.

Buyers could choose between Standard and Lux variants of the road-going RS Cosworth. The Lux model elevated the driving experience with a host of premium features not found on the Standard or Motorsport editions. These included creature comforts such as air conditioning, a CD player, an electric sunroof, heated electric mirrors, a Quick-clear heated windscreen, heated washer jets, and leather-trimmed Recaro seats. The interior was further refined with a leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel, carpeted door bins, a rear seat armrest, and opening rear quarter windows. Heated seat switches were present, but the function was never enabled for the Recaro units.

Toward the latter years of production, the Lux pack became a comprehensive option package, cementing the RS Cosworth’s appeal as both a competition-ready platform and a well-appointed driver’s car. All "small turbo" RS Cosworths fell under either the Standard or Lux trim levels, offering buyers a choice between raw performance and added luxury.

The Car

This wonderfully preserved example of Ford’s legendary RS Cosworth boasts just over 15,000 miles and just three former keepers. Preserved in wonderful original condition, this example has entered into Concours and won, while also making multiple magazine features in such publications as Classic & Sports Car and Fast Ford Magazine.

This particular RS Cosworth Lux rolled of the production line in 1996, being delivered new to its original owner in Stone White over Black leather Lux interior. It was then only sold twice more ending up with the current owner who has owned and fastidiously maintained the car since 2003. Receiving multiple cam belts through out the years, all the while being dry stored and protected by its official Ford car and seat cover.

The car has been entered into a Ford only Concours event, where it came home with the winners trophy for the Novice Class. As well as being a proved award winner the car has features in multiple publications as well as being invited to attend a Ford meeting at the UK headquarters.

The car runs and drives as if had only just driven off the production line. The engine pulls extremely well, regardless of it being a small turbo model or not. The 5-speed gearbox is smooth with no notches and allows the driver to find the desired gear every time. The running gear all performs as expected, with no knocks or rattles and the body roll controlled nicely.

Externally the car is in impeccable condition. Retaining its original paint and many factory parts, there are no scratches or imperfections in the panels. The only cosmetic imperfection is the front plastic lip has a minor graze on the passenger’s side. All rubbers and seals are in excellent condition. Overall, the car is in astonishing condition.

The interior is in superb condition, with all the important Lux options in full working order. There is no signs of wear on the seats, steering wheel, gear knob and peddles. However, the gear lever boot while original could do with some attention.

This truly is a superb example of the marque, ready to be pride of place in any collection.

Please note: The original headlights will be supplied with the car, as well as the car and seat cover.

Service History

• Service – 2,367 miles – 10/8/98
• Service – 9,252 miles – 26/2/03
• Cam Belt – 9,253 miles – 27/2/03
• Service – 10,899 miles – 22/4/04
• Cam Belt – 9,252 miles – 9/6/04
• Service – 11,495 miles – 22/6/05
• Service – 11,948 miles – 24/1/07
• Service – 12,319 miles – 29/8/09
• Service – 12,327 miles – 31/7/10
• Service – 12,461 miles – 28/09/11
• Service – 13,053 miles – 5/7/13
• Service – 13,286 miles – 30/7/14
• Service/Cam Belt – Unknown miles – 2/8/16
• Service – 14,835 miles – 29/9/17
• Service – 14,835 miles – 7/8/18
• Service – Unknown miles – 23/7/19
• Service – 14,995 miles – 3/8/20
• Service – 14,998 miles – 12/8/22
• Service – 15,251 miles – 9/9/24

Location: Nottinghamshire

Seller: Private

Photography: Professional