Ford Escort RS1600

One step up from the Mexico, the Escort RS1600 was developed using an engine that was essentially a detuned Formula 3 unit designated BDA (Belt Drive A Series). Both the Mexico and RS1600 were built simultaneously at the Ford Advanced Vehicle Operations (AVO) facility located at the Aveley Plant in South Essex and, as well as higher-performance engines and sports suspension, these models featured strengthened bodyshells, making them ideal for rallying. Even today, Mk1 Escorts are still very popular in the historic rallying scene with their reputation for a great balance of power and handling, making them true drivers’ cars. The BDA engine emits a distinctive and appealing growl, which can be heard for quite a distance when the vehicle is being driven hard.

This, exceptionally well-presented, 1972 Ford Escort RS1600, finished in Bahama Yellow, offers a multitude of opportunities for its next owner. With a very strong John Wilcox BDA engine, it can either be enjoyed as a very fast road car or for light competition use at low-key club events that are not covered by roll-cage requirements or the rigors of MSA-type scrutineering. It has been used by our vendor for the occasional event and was lots of fun, indeed it would be hard not to have fun in a BDA-engine Mk 1 Escort, even when you are being well-behaved. The attention to detail in the engine bay indicates that this is a seriously well-prepared and fairly rapid road/rally RS1600, however, it looks standard enough to grace a local Ford gathering.

It has been re-shelled but with one of the final new/old stock original Ford AVO shells, which accounts for the bodywork looking pin sharp with a particularly pleasing original interior.

We doubt there is a quicker and more enjoyable RS1600 Escort MKI on the market currently and certainly not in such beautiful condition. We won’t even mention that glorious induction soundtrack!

THE ICONIC SALE AT SILVERSTONE FESTIVAL 2024 – COLLECTORS’ CAR SALE

Last call for entries of Competition Cars, Collectors’ Cars, Motorcycles and Automobilia for our Iconic Sale at Silverstone Festival. Entries close Monday 29th July. This is our 14th year as Silverstone Festivals official auction partner so join us for one of the biggest historic motorsport weekends of the year. VIEWING DAYS: Friday 23rd – Sunday 25th August, 9am to 5.30pm. AUCTIONS: Friday 23rd Competition Car Sale, Saturday 24th Collectors’ Car Sales, 11am. Sunday 25th Motorcycle Sale from 11am, followed by Legends in Time Retirement Sale from 12pm and Automobilia from 2pm. Use discount code 2024ICAUC10 for 10% off tickets.