1971 FORD ESCORT (MK1) RS1600

One of the earliest known examples remaining, this sensational 1971 Ford Escort Mk1 RS1600 has been completely restored to exacting original specifications. Finished in Sebring Red with Black vinyl interior, the odometer shows just 28,761 miles.

Powered by the legendary 1.6-litre BDA engine, developed by Cosworth and found in a multitude of motorsport applications, it is driven through the rear wheels via a four-speed manual gearbox. Just 1,137 examples of the RS1600 were built at Ford Advanced Vehicle Operations and have gone on to achieve cult status. As a result of the period-correct ground-up restoration this example received, the car presents in exceptional – arguably better-than-new – condition.

First registered on 2 April 1971, this RS1600 was purchased by the vendor post-restoration and has been in his custodianship for approximately two years. In his own words, the car has been a ‘museum piece’ throughout this time and has covered zero miles in his ownership, but has been started and run up to temperature regularly.

The Sebring Red paintwork, available only on the Escort RS1600 and Capri RS3100, is in superb, unmarked condition with a deep shine. Shut lines are crisp, and even small original details are perfectly presented, with both original preserved and painstakingly sourced new-old-stock components. The rear bumper is a prime example of this, still wearing its original sticker. As the photographs show, the underside of the car presents superbly, and the engine bay is showroom fresh. The 13-inch wheels are also in fantastic condition and appear original, with only some very minor surface defects.

Moving inside, the interior is correct and in excellent condition. As with the exterior, great effort has been taken to retain original features wherever possible, and the result is a time-warp cabin. Again, significant effort was investment to ensure it presents as a totally period-correct authentic interior.

The restoration of this car was completed in 2011, and was done to a very high standard. Since this work, the car has been scarcely used but regularly started and correctly stored. The car has not been put through an MOT test since 9 August 2016, which as expected was issued with no advisories – though it is exempt from annual checks on the basis of age. The car currently sits on period-correct Dunlop tyres which are reported to be as-new.

This Ford Escort Mk1 RS1600 is an exceptional example of a rare ‘fast Ford’. Not to be confused with the myriad replicas or incorrectly restored examples, or those modified beyond their original specifications, this is a stunning and period-perfect RS1600 that would be a fine addition to any collection.

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