Image via Boreham Motorworks
While on this side of the pond the Ford Escort MK1 RS doesn’t cause much of a stir, in the UK and other markets the little car is the thing of legends. That’s why news of a fresh batch of the performance rides coming out has excited so many enthusiasts around the globe.
A legendary modern muscle car is heading to auction.
Produced by Boreham Motorworks with the blessing of Ford, these “continumod” cars are built at “blueprint-accurate, period-sympathetic” specs using fresh everything. They still bear official Ford chassis numbers, even though each one is graced with some modern technologies and other features not originally found on the Escort MK1 RS.
While not immediately visible, the largest and most critical change is two modern powertrain options. There’s a base 1.8-liter twin-cam four-cylinder with 182-horsepower backed by a four-speed manual transmission with straight-cut gears. We’re sure its’ a riot to drive.
But for those who want a little more and will pony up the extra cash to get it, the second option is a 2.1-liter four-cylinder with 296-hp, a big bump in power for such a small, lightweight car. Plus, that engine has a 10,000 rpm redline that has everyone talking. It’s backed by a five-speed dogleg manual transmission.
While the body is faithful to the original car, the hood, trunk lid, and a number of interior surfaces are made of carbon fiber. Other lightweighting measures help bring the target curb weight to a claimed 1,700 lbs. and some change, which is insane.
Those lucky enough to get one of these cars enjoy two bucket seats, a full roll cage, Alcantara and leather appointments, a small infotainment system, and an interior focused on one thing: driving.
Production has been capped at a mere 150 units, so good luck getting a build slot before assembly starts in fall 2025. With a starting price of a whopping $375,000 that will also disqualify a number of otherwise interested parties.
Image via Boreham Motorworks
