Chassis No: WF0BXX6KABSU92857
Odometer: TMU
Engine: 2.0 Litre Cosworth YBP Turbo I4
Transmission: 5-Speed Ferguson MT-75 Manual
Performance: 224 bhp @ 6,250 rpm / 221 lb-ft > 0-60 mph 5.7 sec / 150 mph
Exterior: Diamond White with Repsol Graphics
Interior: Black Cloth Racing Bucket Seats
“Although the RS Cosworth resembled the Escort road car, it was in fact based on a shortened Sierra 4×4 floor pan and used the latter’s running gear. This meant that, unlike the mainstream Mk. V Escort, the RS Cosworth mounted its engine fore-and-aft rather than transversely, it also used the Sierra 4×4’s five-speed manual transmission which featured permanent four-wheel drive that split the power 34/66 front/rear. In road trim, the RS Cosworth produced 227bhp and with that horsepower in a nimble, compact car, performance was outstanding. Production commenced in February 1992 with the first 2,500 being homologation specials. The Cosworth was entered into the World Rally Championship the following year, enjoying outstanding success in the hands of works drivers François Delecour and Miki Biasion. The end came too early for many enthusiasts with production ceasing in January 1996. Only 7,145 cars were produced over a four-year period”.
Designed under the guidance of Rod Mansfield and John Wheeler of Ford’s SVO department, the styling was designed during 1989, a year before the standard Escort was launched, by Stephen Harper at MGA Developments in Coventry. The aerokit (front and rear spoilers) was designed by MGA with oversight by John Wheeler, whilst the ride and handling was overseen by John Bull and Mick Kelly. The body tooling was created by coachbuilders Karmann at their facility in Rheine, Germany, where the cars were manufactured.
Changes were made to the engine management system and a new turbocharger was fitted. Permanent four-wheel drive with a 34/66% front/rear split came courtesy of an uprated five-speed gearbox as used in the Sierra Cosworth. Like its Sierra predecessor, they are commonly nicknamed “Cossies” by enthusiasts. The car’s top speed was 150 mph (240 km/h), rivalling cars like the Audi Coupé S2, BMW M3, Nissan 300ZX, Toyota Supra and Porsche 968 and comfortably outperforming traditional “hot hatchbacks” like the Volkswagen Golf GTI.
Speedart Motorsports is delighted to offer this competitive Rally car, dressed in the all-conquering Repsol livery paying a tribute to Spaniard Carlos Sainz’s return to WRC with Ford in 1996 and his victory at the Race of Champions in 1997.
Chassis No.92857 is a carefully curated example that represents its last owner’s enthusiasm for competition motorcars and it was imported from Spain sometime in 2019. During its life in Europe, the Escort was campaigned by privateer Alonso Tojo Alberto and his copilot Segura Fernández Álex of Leioa Racing Taldea in the following venues:
Reportedly, the Cosworth has also been raced professionally in France during 2013 under Group N as well as successfully participating in two amateur seasons with Spanish registration plate 3764 CBM.
While in United States the Cosworth was sparingly driven to few car shows and has enjoyed a sheltered life, always maintained and serviced to high standards. This is a Group N specification Rally car and FIA compliant with professional modifications constituting such example as a highly competitive specimen including several performance upgrades.
All import duties have been paid and the automobile is compliant with all domestic importation laws – the Ford is sold with a free and clear Florida title and may be registered for unlimited road use (California residents should check with their local agency for registration eligibility).
We are excited to discuss an ownership opportunity of this thrilling Escort RS Cosworth as well as arrange a private viewing in our motorsport gallery of what is arguably one of the most defining representations of the 90s glorious rally era.
Whilst Speedart Motorsports, LLC. (“We”) make a sincere effort to contain information that is accurate and complete, we are aware that errors and omissions may occur. We are not able therefore, to guarantee the accuracy of that information and we do not accept liability for loss or damage arising from misleading information or for any reliance on which you may place on the information contained in this website. We highly recommend that you examine the vehicle to check the accuracy of the information supplied. If you have any queries with regard to any information on our website, please contact us at [email protected]. This disclaimer does not affect your statutory rights.
Please note that the mileage may vary slightly from the time of cataloguing due to demonstration and road testing purposes.
