1994 FORD ESCORT RS COSWORTH LUX

This Ford Escort RS Cosworth ‘Lux’ is a sound example of the rally-bred performance icon, presented in its factory black-on-black colour scheme, and remaining largely original. Under the vented bonnet is a 2.0-litre turbocharged Cosworth YBP engine, producing 227bhp and 224lb-ft of torque in standard form. This power is transmitted to all four wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Its odometer reads 95,753 miles.

First registered on 7 October 1994, this original, UK-market car has seven previous keepers, and was acquired by its current approximately five years ago.

This RS Cosworth’s bodywork is reported to be in good shape, and is believed never to have suffered from any accident damage, with straight panels and even shut lines. Thought to be the car’s original, factory-applied finish, the Ash Black paintwork presents well and has a deep gloss overall but does feature some small age-related marks, including superficial scratches and stone chips.

There is some rust visible around the panels, including at the bottom of the tailgate, inside the offside door near the hinges, and a small flaked blister on the offside front wing. The bottom of the central support for the massive ‘whale tail’ wing is also starting to crack. The car rides on a set of 18-inch silver five-spoke alloy wheels, which replicate the style of the Cosworth’s original 16-inch items and are in excellent, unmarked condition.

Inside, the cabin is almost entirely original, and the black leather Recaro bucket seats found in ‘Lux’ models such as this one are in generally good order considering the car’s age and mileage. There is some general creasing to the upholstery, and small scuffed areas of wear and discolouration on the driver’s side outer bolster.

The leather-rimmed steering wheel is in good shape, as are the interior trim items, although the seller notes that there is a hole in the steering column casing where an alarm switch was previously fitted.

A set of aftermarket Sparco pedal covers provide some additional purchase for more spirited drives, and the gear stick has been replaced with a B&M quick shift. The original Ford-branded stereo system with radio, cassette and CD player remains in place, though it is not currently working – but there are no reported faults with the car’s switches or electrical items.

The most recent service was carried out by the seller two years ago, entailing replacement of the cambelt, water pump, engine oil, oil filter, air filter and spark plugs. Prior to this, the car was serviced by its previous owner as detailed in the receipts and service book, which will be provided as part of the sale.

During the vendor’s ownership, the front suspension uprights have also been repaired as they had become worn, and the front suspension bushes were replaced at the same time. The vendor also notes that the clutch ratchet needs to be replaced, but a spare will be included with the car.

This Escort RS Cosworth is mechanically almost entirely original and unmodified, save for the B&M short shifter and Samco Sport blue silicone hoses in the engine bay. The vendor states that the car’s 245/35 ZR 18 Pirelli P Zero tyres are approximately two years old, but have covered no more than 150 miles in this time.

The car’s last MOT test was conducted on 6 August 2020 at an indicated 95,751 miles. Resulting in a first-time pass, the test noted damage to the windscreen as a minor defect – though not affecting the driver’s view – as well as some advisories regarding corrosion on the brake pipes and some rust on the rear chassis and under the sills.

Accompanying the car is a spare wheel, factory jack and wheel brace, towing eye, service book and various receipts for work carried out over the years, as well as the spare clutch ratchet and caps for the rear side window fixings.

An attractive modern classic with rally-inspired pedigree, this Ford Escort RS Cosworth is presented in good order for its age and mileage. It would make a fun improvement project for 2021, with the cosmetic blemishes addressed over time, but it is ultimately ready to be driven and enjoyed as-is.

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All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.