Description
UTAC | Millbrook, Bedford
Viewing: Tues 24th June from 12pm
Auction: Wed 25th June from 9am
Location: Millbrook Proving Ground, Station Lane, Bedford MK45 2JQ
1980 Ford Escort RS 2000
Estimate
£44, 000 - £48, 000
Registration No: GPB 263V
Chassis No: GCATWM023670
MOT: Exempt
Harvey Gibbs-built Cosworth YB engine, offering a reported 450 bhp
Built to a very high standard and just 568 miles since completion
T5 H-pattern straight-cut gearbox plus a Volvo LSD
According to the vendor, 'to build the car today would be in excess of £80, 000'.
Originally developed in conjunction with Ford of Cologne and launched during January 1976, the Escort Mk2 RS2000 was based around a two-door monocoque bodyshell and at launch, they were visually distinguished from other Escorts by a fibreglass snout housing quad headlamps, however, the model could be bought with a non-coned front. Weighing in at just over 900kg, the Mk2 RS2000 benefitted from a lightweight construction, paired with a sport-tuned suspension that enhanced its cornering ability. The car enjoyed considerable success in motorsport, contributing to Ford's dominance in rallying during the late '70s! Today, a number have formed the basis of lightweight and performance-enhanced builds with a retro Ford theme.
This rather special Escort Mk2 RS2000 (RS2000 as marked on logbook) has essentially been built as a lightweight rally car, with full plexi-glass windows, a fibreglass boot lid, bonnet and arches. We understand it to have the GCAT chassis numbers relating to Ford's Saarlois factory, home of the RS2000. Having only covered c. 568 miles since the build it has an extensive specification, the headline of which is the Harvey Gibbs-built Cosworth YB engine, offering a reported 450hp. The build also includes a T5 H-pattern straight-cut gearbox, a Volvo LSD 6-linked axle, front Capri coil-over converted Bilstien struts with GRP4 tarmac inserts, a GRP4 Fabrications x-member, Wilwood callipers all-round, a single piece prop, 3" 5-point harnesses, an OMP steering wheel with quick release boss, Easysteer adjustable power steering, alloy GRP4 Fabrications injection tank, Oddysey boot-located race battery, full poly-carb Green tinted windows, a floor-mounted adjustable pedal box, a hydraulic handbrake and a Simpson full 3" stainless steel race exhaust. According to the vendor, 'to build the car today would be in excess of £80, 000'. The vendor purchased the car from a collector in 2024 and has used it sparingly due to other projects. He had planned to showcase the car at events, however, he has now decided that it needs to be enjoyed by a new custodian.
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Parking and entry into the auction is free for auction attendees with a catalogue, available at the door.
Catalogues can be purchased for £20 (admits 2 people).
