Boreham Motorworks has exciting news (following on from the announcement we covered previously with Boreham Motorworks joining Alan Mann Racing)- an icon is making its return! After fifty years since the last limited edition Ford Escort Mk1 RS-lineage model, the Mk1 RS2000, applications are now open for a special run of only 150 cars with continuation chassis numbers. Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity.
As an official brand license partner of the Ford Motor Company, Boreham Motorworks is dedicated to preserving and enhancing the legacy of some of Ford’s most iconic vehicles. This includes the ultimate evolution of the Mk1 and its RS lineage, a machine designed for driving enthusiasts. The Escort Rallye Sport line gained a reputation for exceptional performance and handling, setting a new standard for high-performance cars. Throughout each new RS variant, Ford honed the formula and pushed the boundaries of what could be achieved on road, track, and rally stage. Boreham Motorworks takes pride in upholding this legacy by blending modern advancements with the unfiltered driving experience that established the RS Escorts as performance icons.
By combining DNA, advanced technology, state-of-the-art materials, and bespoke engineering, Boreham Motorworks proudly presents the revolutionary Continumod™. Unlike typical restomods, this segment does not rely on a donor vehicle. Instead, it utilises an official brand agreement with Ford Motor Company and cutting-edge manufacturing methods to create a truly unique vehicle from the ground up.
Customers have the choice between two distinctive engine options, both capturing the essence of the Ford RS heritage while offering contemporary performance. The first option is the renowned Twin Cam, now enlarged to 1845cc. Equipped with fuel injection and producing 185PS, this engine is mated with a 4-speed manual “Ford bullet” synchromesh straight cut transmission. It pays homage to the Boreham built Escort Mk1 Twin Cam, merging its legendary legacy with agile and responsive performance suited for today’s streets.
For those looking for a modern interpretation of classic Ford motorsport DNA, an all-new engine option awaits. The 4-cylinder high-revving Ford engine, derived from motorsport technology, boasts impressive specifications. Weighing under 85kg, this road-tuned 2.1-litre engine features double overhead camshaft and chain cam drive and produces an astonishing 10,000 RPM and 300 PS. To handle this extreme power, the engine is equipped with forged steel conrods and billet crankshaft. It also includes a motorsport spec loom and connectors to connect coil over plug ignition, advanced fuel injection, ECU management, and electronic throttle control. With thrilling performance and practical usability in mind, this powerhouse is sure to impress.
Paired with the 10,000 RPM powerhouse is a custom titanium exhaust system specifically designed for optimal performance and an exhilarating sound. The power is transmitted through a 5-speed dogleg transmission, featuring tailored gear ratios that result in effortless and precise shifts. As a result, this drivetrain offers an equally thrilling experience on both the road and track.
Becoming a Road Expert with Dynamic Ride and Handling
Central to the latest Ford Escort Mk1 RS is an unwavering dedication to dynamic precision, a defining characteristic of its RS legacy. Available in both left and right-hand drive, this vehicle boasts a 55:45 weight distribution and MacPherson front struts, delivering sharp steering and superior front-end traction. Its suspension geometry has been finely tuned within the current hardpoint limits for heightened performance.
Maintaining the true, traditional driving feel of the original high-performance Escorts, the latest RS showcases a brand-new lightweight rear axle made of aluminium and titanium. This combination delivers predictable handling and a direct link to the Escort’s racing roots. It is complemented by a cutting-edge limited-slip ATB differential and coil-over dampers, specifically designed to improve balance and stability while providing exceptional control when accelerating.
In addition to the Ford MK1 Escort RS’s pure driving pleasure, its lack of power steering, ABS, traction control, and brake servo is equally noteworthy. These features allow for a singular focus on connecting the driver to the road. On the track, the new Ford Escort Mk1 RS provides a visceral driving experience with precisely balanced controllable oversteer. This enables the driver to execute breakaways and maintain controlled slides while ensuring predictability and control of the car.
The custom 15″ four-spoke wheels feature 205/50×15 tyres on the front and 225/50×15 tyres on the rear, paying homage to the original Mk1 Escort design while also improving performance. To provide exceptional braking capabilities, the front has 260mm x 25mm vented discs with four-piston callipers while the rear has 264mm x 11mm solid discs with two-piston callipers.
Crafted to Deliver Optimal Analogue® Capability
Thanks to an extensive engineering programme that included laser scanning and utilizing original blueprints, the Ford Escort Mk1 has undergone a complete re-engineering process in CAD. This is the first time such advanced technology has been used on a Ford Escort Mk1, surpassing what the original pencil draughtsmen could have ever imagined. Boreham Motorworks has also created new manufacturing jigs and fixtures for body assembly, guaranteeing that modern tolerances for gap and flush are met – something not achievable during the car’s initial production. As a result, the engineering team was able to develop a new RS body with precise measurements and period-appropriate design, constructed to meet the high standards of a modern OEM.
Furthermore, by utilizing CAE analysis, the Boreham team has conducted detailed studies on body efficiency, chassis dynamics, and tortional rigidity to determine the specific parameters and attributes that the new Ford Escort Mk1 RS must possess. Based on these findings, the team identified several areas of the car that could benefit from structural enhancements. Using this information, Boreham implemented finely crafted upgrades to enhance the car’s handling and driving dynamics in real-world situations. This resulted in improved performance, usability, and drivability, staying faithful to the legendary reputation of the new Ford Escort Mk1 RS.
The upgraded engineering analysis program utilized for the Ford Escort Mk1 RS incorporates various enhancements to the all-steel body, such as added bracing, expanded inner arches, and vertical rear dampers. A crucial aspect of achieving a top-notch Peak Analogue® experience is the emphasis on maintaining a weight of 800kg. With a core focus on lightweighting, the design features carbon fibre bonnet and boot lid, as well as interior substrates. Additionally, lightweight materials were also used in the rear-axel and optional forged magnesium wheels to further enhance the overall weight reduction.
The new Ford Escort Mk1 RS boasts a driver-focused cockpit, skillfully designed by Boreham. Balancing lightweighting and driver comfort, the interior exudes modern functionality without sacrificing style. Heated screens and air conditioning with four vents provide superior climate control, complete with a dedicated screen demist function. Crafted with precision and attention to detail, each component in the interior showcases a blend of Alcantara, luxurious leathers, and anodised elements with tactile feedback. Standard features include three-point inertia reel belts, while an optional four-point harness and visual carbon rear compartment race helmet stowage are also available. For added stiffness and integrity, a full roll cage with removable door bars is included in the design while maintaining the vehicle’s performance ethos without compromise.
Simplicity in design that serves a purpose
Design Director Wayne Burgess brings a strong personal connection to the Ford Escort project, as his first car was a Mk2 Escort. His vision for the new Ford Escort Mk1 RS is influenced by both his own experience and his passion for the model’s iconic heritage, performance, and design.
When it comes to exterior design, our philosophy is all about simplicity and form. We strip away any unnecessary ornamentation to highlight the essential elements. This includes removing the quarter bumpers and main direction indicators for a sleeker and more purposeful silhouette. Additionally, we add a touch of modern craftsmanship with a billet-machined aluminium grille surround and unique headlights inspired by classic racing lights often taped over. These features pay homage to the motorsport roots of the Escort.
The taillights embody the same ethos, a classic form enhanced by modern technology for optimal functionality and visibility without compromising its iconic appearance. Every design decision is purposeful: the updated door handles, mirrors, and billet components add a touch of refined sophistication without diverting from the clean and simple overall design. While staying true to the original Mk1’s fundamentals, the compact wheels are also equipped with advanced performance features to ensure a seamless driving experience that matches its impressive appearance.
The inside of the Ford Escort Mk1 RS adopts a simplistic theme, emphasizing functionality and a driver-centric design. It provides a harmonious balance between comfort and performance, seamlessly combining classic aesthetics with contemporary practicality.
The interior boasts a low, horizontal dashboard that creates a feeling of openness and roominess. Meanwhile, the compact binnacle is strategically placed within the steering wheel for an unobstructed view of the road. Complementing this setup is a stylish three-spoke steering wheel with a slim rim that not only looks great, but also provides a direct and tactile connection between driver and vehicle. In addition, the instrument panel maintains its analogue charm while also meeting modern standards, allowing drivers to experience both timeless elegance and modern convenience.
According to Design Director Wayne Burgess, our aim from the start was to pay tribute to the simple and pure design of the original car, while also meeting the standards of a modern performance vehicle. We have carefully considered every aspect, from the sleek exterior to the practical interior, in order to capture the essence of what made the Mk1 so exceptional. Our goal is to create a car that not only embraces its heritage but also propels us into an era of Peak Analogue® performance.
The highly anticipated first appearance in front of the public.
Priced at a starting point of £295,000, the production of this exclusive car will be limited to just 150 units. Along with a 2-year 20,000-mile warranty for added assurance, the public and press will have the opportunity to see the vehicle in summer of 2025, before it officially goes into production in Q3 of the same year.
According to Iain Muir, CEO of Boreham Motorworks, reviving the Ford Escort Mk1 RS for a new generation is more than just creating a car; it’s a tribute to a legacy that has captivated driving enthusiasts for over 50 years. At Boreham Motorworks, we are dedicated to not only preserving the essence of the original, but also bringing it into the modern era with advanced engineering, precision design, and unparalleled craftsmanship. Our team has put in countless hours to ensure that every aspect of this car, from its dynamics to its structure, is expertly crafted to deliver the purest driving experience possible. This perfectly embodies Boreham’s core values – seamlessly blending heritage and innovation. We take great pride in reintroducing the Escort Mk1 RS and are excited for all those who will have the opportunity to feel its iconic performance. We can’t wait to showcase this car to both the general public and Ford enthusiasts this summer.
