1972 Ford Escort Mk1 RS1600
- Engine
- BDA twin-cam inline-four
A right-hand-drive Ford Escort RS1600 originally supplied to a Ford Motor Company director in the United States, ordered alongside his GT40. Imported from Alabama in 2007, the car underwent a comprehensive restoration to RAC International Rally specification — the livery it reportedly carried in 1973 as entry number 14. Power comes from a rebuilt 1600cc BDA unit producing 171bhp at 7,000rpm on Weber 40 DCOEs. The car appeared at the 2011 Goodwood Revival Ford of Britain Centenary celebrations.
Ownership
- 2023-08-25Auction saleSold £66,000 (≈ $83K)
- → 2007Acquisition unknownAlabama-based ownerpartial documentation
Car was in Alabama prior to its 2007 purchase and importation to the UK; precise ownership chain during this period is not detailed.
- 2007 → 2016Private saleUK importer/restorer patronpartial documentation
Purchased the car from Alabama and commissioned a full restoration through Neil Twyman Racing, returning it to 1973 RAC Rally specification. Car was used at the 2011 Goodwood Revival before being sold in 2016.
- 2016 →Private saleCurrent vendorpartial documentation
Acquired for a private collection and used lightly with routine maintenance since purchase.
- Date unknownFactory deliveryFord Motor Company director (original US recipient)partial documentation
Car was delivered new to a Ford executive in America who also ordered a GT40 at the same time; the car was kept in Alabama.
Competition
- 1973RAC International Rally1973 RAC International Rally
Car reportedly entered as number 14; this historical participation was the basis for the restoration specification chosen by the subsequent owner.
- 20112011 Goodwood Revival Ford of Britain Centenary
Car took part in the Ford of Britain Centenary celebrations held at the Goodwood Revival; video footage is believed to exist.
Maintenance & restoration
- 2008RestorationNeil Twyman Racing
Comprehensive nut-and-bolt restoration to original specification, specifically returning the car to its 1973 RAC Rally appearance including factory flared arches and appropriate finish; work completed by 2009.
Restoration documented in an extensive history file; work commenced after the 2007 import from the US.
- 2008Engine rebuildDTW Engines
Original 1600cc BDA engine rebuilt and configured with Weber 40 DCOE carburettors, achieving a dynometer-verified output of 171bhp at 7,000rpm.
Dyno printout retained as part of the car's history file.
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