A matching number, predominantly original example of this increasingly desirable fast Ford
Recently recommissioned for immediate use after an extended period in storage
Complete with a full, stamped service history and recent cambelt replacement
The Appeal
Ford have been behind some of the most iconic, affordable and attainable fast versions of everyday cars. Their Escort model line was no exception with luminaries such as Mexico, RS2000 and the Escort RS Turbo all making an indelible mark. The S1 Escort RS Turbo appeared in October 1984. Available only in white (except one which was finished in black for Princess Diana) and became the first front wheel drive production car fitted with a limited slip differential. The S2 RS Turbo arrived in 1987 and was now based on the MKIV Escort. The winning recipe of the S1 was largely unaltered but a limited pallet of other colours was now available.
This example presents in a charmingly original condition with just a couple of non-standard fitments noted. This RS Turbo ticks all the boxes with a full-service history, long MOT and recommissioned ready to use and enjoy. Examples in this sort of unmolested condition are becoming hard to find so is definitely one for the purist and enthusiast.
The History and Paperwork
This example is a UK supplied and specification vehicle
It was first registered in the UK in August 1989 for the new “G” registration
The car was supplied new to its first owner by Ford dealer KT Group of Dartford
The first owner retained the car for a year with the second keeping it for a full 10 years
Between 2008 and this year the car was dry stored by the previous owner
Between 2008 and 2023 the car has covered less than 500 miles
The current owner has recommissioned the car for use
The cambelt has been changed and the filters and fluids changed
The car was newly MOT’d in August 2023
A good level of accompanying paperwork is present
This includes the V5 in the name of the current owner
The current MOT is present in hard copy
This is an advisory free test and valid until August 2024
Numerous earlier MOTs are also present
The original book pack and owners’ manual is on hand
The pack includes the original service book
This is full of stamps, many from Ford main dealers
A full 22 stamps are present covering 1,826 to 90,527 miles
The remainder of the archive consists of many maintenance and repair invoices
The original keys and Toad alarm fobs are included
The Interior
The key to this car’s interior is its originality
The Recaro front seats are trimmed with their original “Daytona” velour fabric
The condition of these looks to be excellent with the Recaro badges still present
The rear bench is identically trimmed and equally well presented
This features a one third / two thirds split and fold configuration for optimum practicality
The familiar looking dashboard is finished in black finished deformable foam
The white on black gauges sit in a hooded binnacle ahead of the driver
The chunky, leather, RS three spoke steering wheel appears to be from an S1 car
Its condition looks excellent, however, and suits the car well
A non-standard Ford boost gauge has been fitted to the right of the wheel
A period-correct aftermarket radio cassette head unit is fitted
The grey carpets look to be in a good original condition
As does the light, perforated vinyl headlining
The RS Turbo specification included electric windows and tilt / slide glass sunroof
The spacious boot is finished with a protective carpet mat
A non-standard parcel shelf is finished with speaker apertures cut into it
This has been recovered in carpet to provide a sound alternative
The Exterior
The exterior of this RS Turbo is presented in bright Radiant Red paintwork
The condition of this appears to be excellent and exudes a deep shine
No obvious paint fade is noted with it appearing admirably bright for a red hue
The bodywork looks equally good with tight and symmetrical panel gaps evident
The signature RS Turbo features all appear present and correct
These include body-coloured bonnet vents and big boot lid spoiler
There is also the expected body kit present with painted skirts and wheel arch extensions
The painted bumper covers, and wing mirror back are also well presented
The only non-standard noted here is an oversized chromed tail pipe
The original 6J x 15-inch Ford “sawtooth” light alloy wheels are fitted
These appear to be in fine shape throughout
A matching set of Toyo Proxes are fitted in a 195/50 configuration
These look to be a recent set with plenty of remaining tread in evidence
The Mechanics
The Ford Escort RS Turbo is fitted with a 1.6L OHC, CVH four-cylinder petrol engine
A Garret AiResearch T3 turbocharger and intercooler is fitted
The engine is fuelled by a Bosch KE-Jetronic fuel injection system
A non-standard blow-off valve is reported as being present
Other than this and the non-standard exhaust the mechanicals are thought to be original
Power is fed to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox
The RS Turbo is fitted with a limited slip differential
In the Escort RS Turbo S2 the brake system was carried over from the XR4
In current ownership the cambelt has been replaced
The car has also undergone a general recommissioning for road use
The full, clean MOT helps underscore this car’s mechanical condition
Summary
The Ford Escort RS Turbo went on to earn and deserve a place in the blue oval’s unofficial fast Ford Hall of Fame. Its 130bhp plus output was a big deal in the late 1980’s and endowed the car with a highly competitive 128mph top speed and a 0-60mph time in the early eights. The S2 model was praised for its improved brakes, more modern design language yet offered the same high power / high fun driving experience.
This example is notable for its originality. Its overall condition appears to be very good and, bar a couple of minor mods, predominantly in factory fettle. The car boasts a full and generous service history and an original mileage equating to a mere 2,700 miles a year on average. With a recent recommissioning, new cambelt and long, advisory free MOT, this is a fast Ford Escort that is ready to use and enjoy immediately.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
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1989 Ford Escort RS Turbo (Series 2)
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