If your thing is classic Ford Escorts, the Silverstone Auctions sale at next month’s NEC Classic Motor Show includes a Mk1 RS1600, two RS2000s and an RS1600i.
The most valuable car is the 1972 Mk1 RS1600. In light blue, it’s one of just 1,137 built. Its original BDA engine is effectively a de-tuned Formula 3 single-seat racer unit. It’s had just four owners from new and covered just under 8,000 miles. Just restored, it’s estimated to sell for between £58,000 and £68,000.
Heroes of the 1980s
Then there are two 1980 cars. Both are RS2000 Customs with ‘droop snoots’. One comes in a very 1980s colour: Cordoba Beige. It’s covered a total of 34,000 miles, of which just 1,500 occurred during the past 27 years.
Described as a ‘timewarp car’, coming from storage, it’s expected to pull in between £34,000 and £45,000.
The second 1980 car is in more desirable Venetian Red. This car is an award winner, having taken first place at the RS Owners’ Club Lakes Tour in 2017. With a fresh restoration, it’s expected to achieve between £38,000 and £44,000.
The last car marks the crossover point for the Escort – from rear- to front-wheel-drive. This 1983 Sunburst Red RS1600i comes from a well-known RS collection. It’s no understatement to say this is one of the best examples in existence. Having driven just 700 miles in the last 16 years, it has covered 34,700 miles in total. With lots of history, it’s estimated at between £30,000 and £40,000.
“These Fast Fords are very popular and when exceptional cars come to market there always tends to be a frenzy around them,” said Joe Watts of Silverstone Auctions.
“We are very lucky to have these cars in the auction at the same time. It gives you a great idea on how the cars developed over the 10 years in which they span.
“All of them are just in fabulous condition and come with their own personal history.”
