The Ford Escort RS Cosworth is a car that needs no introduction among rally fans and car enthusiasts alike. Originally introduced in 1992, this iconic vehicle quickly made a name for itself on the rally circuit, thanks to its impressive performance and striking design.
The Escort RS Cosworth was built as a homologation special, which means that it was designed and built specifically to meet the requirements for participation in the World Rally Championship. To achieve this, Ford took the basic platform of the Escort hatchback and heavily modified it to create a car that was capable of competing at the highest levels of international rallying.
Under the hood, the Escort RS Cosworth featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that was capable of producing up to 227 horsepower in its later iterations. This engine was mated to a five-speed manual transmission and a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system that helped to ensure maximum traction on even the most treacherous rally stages.
One of the most distinctive features of the Escort RS Cosworth was its bold and aggressive styling. The car featured a massive rear wing, a large front splitter, and flared wheel arches that gave it an unmistakable and intimidating presence on the rally stage. This styling was not just for show, however; the various aero components were carefully designed to improve the car’s performance by increasing downforce and reducing drag. In fact the RS Cosworth was the first mass production car to produce downforce at the front and rear.
The Escort RS Cosworth proved to be a formidable competitor in the World Rally Championship, with drivers like Carlos Sainz, Francois Delecour, and Juha Kankkunen achieving numerous victories behind the wheel of this iconic car. In addition to its success on the rally circuit, the Escort RS Cosworth also enjoyed a cult following among enthusiasts who appreciated its performance, unique styling, and motorsport heritage.
Today, the Escort RS Cosworth is considered a classic among rally fans and car collectors alike. Its timeless design and impressive performance capabilities ensure that it will always hold a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts around the world. Whether on the rally stage or on display at a car show, the Escort RS Cosworth continues to captivate and inspire, nearly three decades after its introduction.
Escort RS Cosworth Performance Specs
Power HP: 224BHP / 227 PS / 167 KW at 6,250 RPM –
Torque: 304 Nm / 224 lbf⋅ft (31 kg⋅m) of torque at 3,500 rpm
0-100 km/h (62MPH): 5.7 seconds
Top Speed: 147 MPH (without the wing) – 142MPH with it
