1971 Ford Escort RS1600 Group 2 FIA Competition Saloon

The Ford Escort RS1600 (1970-1974) was the homologation special with Cosworth BDA twin-cam 1.6 producing 120hp. Purpose-built rally weapon with lightweight panels, strengthened shell. Around 1,100 built. Rally legend. Values from £80k.

Escort Mk1: Engine - Kent crossflow robust with excellent parts. BDA twin-cam (RS1600/Twin Cam) needs specialist care, expensive to rebuild. Pinto (RS2000) - timing belt. Gearbox - 4-speed, ok. Body - RUST is critical. Sills are structural, floors, inner wings, front crossmember, rear arches, boot floor. Restoration panels available. Suspension - leaf spring rear. Values rising steadily, especially RS models. Budget £1-4k annually.

RS1600 (holy grail), Twin Cam (rare), RS2000, Mexico, Good bodywork critical, Matching numbers