The 1980 Ford Escort RS 2000 is what happens when raw nostalgia meets next-level engineering. This isn’t just an icon, it’s a machine reimagined for the tarmac, with one purpose in mind: exhilaration.
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1980 Ford Escort RS 2000: Born to Compete
At first glance, it retains its classic silhouette, lightweight frame, short overhangs, and rally-bred stance. But this one’s story runs deeper. Underneath that Alpine White shell lies a build so complete, it would cost over £80,000 to replicate today.
Rally Hardware with a Vintage Skin
Built around Ford’s GCAT-coded shell, this Escort is more than a tribute. Plexiglass windows, GRP arches, and a fiberglass boot lid all serve the rally spec. The build includes GRP4 suspension, Wilwood brakes, a hydraulic handbrake, and fully stripped internals. It looks vintage, but it’s track-grade underneath.
Cosworth-Powered Performance
Forget stock figures, this RS 2000 features a Harvey Gibbs-built Cosworth YB engine, pushing a reported 450bhp. That power reaches the rear wheels through a T5 straight-cut gearbox and a Volvo limited-slip differential. Despite the muscle, balance is achieved through finely tuned suspension and top-tier components.
Purpose-Built, Barely Used
Since its completion, just 568 miles have ticked over. That’s less than a season of rallying. The vendor’s projects kept it garage-bound, but this Escort craves apexes and gravel kicks. From the Simpson race exhaust to the Easysteer system, it’s ready to be unleashed.
Summary
The 1980 Ford Escort RS 2000 stands as a roaring tribute to rally heritage, equal parts classic charisma and competition-grade muscle. This one’s not for storing; it’s for storming down backroads and drawing nods from anyone who knows their fast Fords.
Disclaimer: Vehicle specifications and performance figures are based on owner claims and should be independently verified by buyers.
