Ford Escort Mk1 RS Returns After Half a Century
At the end of last year, Boreham Motorworks announced that it would be building an officially licensed modern reimagining of the Ford Escort Mk1 RS2000 that last rolled off the assembly line in 1975.
The Coventry-based car builder has now revealed the motor that will power this limited-edition heritage model, and it’s enough to get any red-blooded gearhead’s juices flowing — a 2.1-liter naturally-aspirated inline four with billet internals that pumps out 325 horsepower, and screams all the way up to 10,000 rpm. The transmission is a five-speed manual, and a mechanical limited slip differential manages torque to the rear wheels. The motor has been aptly christened the Ten-K, for that lofty redline, and weighs just 187 lbs.
Boreham Motorworks
Not a Restomod
Boreham’s creation is not a restomod. While it does meld a classic design with modern technology, it is technically a continuation model — an all-new car with chassis numbers continuing from the original production run — rather than a restored donor car. Consider it an evolution of the original Mk1 RS lineage, built from the ground up and based on the original Mk1 Escort blue prints, although engineered to 21st-century precision. Weighing in at only 1,764 lbs (800 kg), Boreham’s Mk1 Ford Escort RS boasts an impressive 406 hp/tonne power-to-weight ratio.
Modern updates include four throttle bodies replacing the twin carbs on the original, coilover suspension with reworked geometry and extra bracing, a fully-floating rear axle constructed with aluminum and titanium, and wide 15-inch wheels. In pursuit of a purely analog experience, the Mk1 Ford Escort RS forgoes ABS, traction control, and even power steering.
Alternative Engine
While the aforementioned Ten-K motor is the star of the show, it may not be to the taste of owners who prize period-correct authenticity. Boreham offers them the option of a 1.8-liter belt-driven twin-cam engine derived from the 16-valve 1.6-liter Cosworth unit that powered the original Escort RS1600 to rally success back in the ‘70s. This engine makes a respectable 182 horsepower, and is mated to a four-speed manual ‘box with straight-cut gears.
Boreham Motorworks
Can You Buy One?
Probably not; with production limited to 150 units worldwide, and priced at £295,000 ($388,200) Boreham Motorworks’ Mk1 Ford Escort RS is destined to be an extremely exclusive collector’s item. The first production unit should be ready early next year, and Boreham is accepting applications from interested buyers.
