1980 Ford Escort RS 2000

Registration No: GPB 263V
Chassis No: GCATWM023670
MOT: Exempt

• Harvey Gibbs-built Cosworth YB engine, offering a reported 450bhp
• Built to a very high standard and just c.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.

The vendor acquired this extraordinary RS2000 (RS2000 as marked on the logbook) from a private collector in 2024. The vendor describes it as “not just a showpiece — it’s a fully sorted, no-expense-spared performance machine that represents the pinnacle of Mk2 Escort builds. The level of engineering and attention to detail throughout is second to none. A proper driver’s car — raw, fast, and built for thrills". Essentially, it had 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. From its Harvey Gibbs 450hp Cosworth YB engine to its meticulously spec’d suspension and lightweight construction, components have been selected and professionally fitted with the aim to deliver serious performance on or off the tarmac.

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 cross-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'. Only used sparingly due to other automotive projects taking precedence, it was planned to showcase the car at events, however, he has now decided that it needs to be enjoyed by a new custodian.

For more information, please contact:
Baljit Atwal
baljit.atwal@handh.co.uk
07943 584762