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Ford Escort RS2000 Mk2 1978 review

Saloon Petrol
Ford Escort RS2000 Mk2 1978 — front three-quarter view

Photo: Herodotptlomeu (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons

Overview

Unveiled at the 1975 Earls Court Motor Show, the Mk2 Escort RS2000 was the most luxurious of Ford''s sporting Escorts — and instantly recognisable thanks to its slanted polyurethane ''droop snoot'' nose. Beneath it sat an uprated 2.0-litre Pinto overhead-cam engine with a four-into-two exhaust manifold, good for 110bhp, driving the rear wheels through a four-speed gearbox.

On the road it is a proper old-school thrill: light, rear-driven, and endlessly tuneable. The RS2000 dominated club rallying and remains the definitive 1970s fast Ford, with values reflecting its icon status. Good cars now change hands for serious money, and the very best restored examples command a hefty premium.

Authenticity is everything. Genuine UK cars are RS2000 Customs with a VIN starting CGAT — check the chassis plate and the number stamped on the suspension turret. Rust attacks sills, floors, inner wings, strut tops and the boot floor, so inspect thoroughly. Many cars have been modified with twin Webers, five-speed boxes or even Cosworth engines; decide whether you want originality or performance before you buy.

UK price from: £27,500

Specifications

Engine2.0L Pinto OHC 8v petrol
Power110 bhp (81 kW)
0-60 mph8.8 seconds (approx.)
Top speed110 mph
Production years1976-1980
Kerb weight950 kg (approx.)
Transmission4-speed manual
DriveRear-wheel drive
Fuel economy28 mpg (combined, approx.)
Length4,155 mm (approx.)

Features

  • 2.0L Pinto overhead-cam engine
  • Distinctive ''droop snoot'' polyurethane nose cone
  • Four-spoke RS alloy wheels
  • Sports seats and rev counter
  • Four-into-two exhaust manifold
  • Four-speed manual gearbox, rear-wheel drive
  • Flexible rear spoiler
  • Upgraded suspension and brakes over standard Mk2

Common parts & prices

PartPrice (GBP)Notes
Front brake pads (set)£29.99For Girling M16 calipers, front axle
Weber carburettor rebuild kit£149.99For 32/36 DGAV; check your carb model first
Clutch kit£109.99Cover, disc and release bearing
Sill repair panels (pair)£199.99Full-length outer sills; welding required
Exhaust system (mild steel)£279.99Manifold-back; stainless systems also available
Oil filter£8.99Spin-on type for Pinto engines

Prices are typical UK aftermarket/OEM guide prices and may vary by supplier.

Pros

  • The definitive 1970s fast Ford with huge scene appeal
  • Endlessly tuneable with massive parts and knowledge base
  • Values of genuine cars have risen strongly
  • Historic status means no VED and no MOT

Cons

  • Rust is severe — check everywhere, twice
  • Many cars are modified or recreations, not genuine RS2000s
  • 1970s brakes and handling demand respect
  • Good original cars are now very expensive

Frequently asked questions

How do I know it is a genuine RS2000?
Check the VIN: genuine UK Mk2 RS2000s have a chassis number starting with CGAT. The plate should be on the inner wing with a matching number stamped into the suspension turret. The V5 should state RS2000. Be wary of reshelled cars and recreations sold as the real thing.
Where does a Mk2 Escort rust?
Everywhere: sills, floorpans, inner front wings, strut tops, chassis rails, boot floor and around the rear lights. A rot-free shell is the single most valuable thing on the car — mechanicals are easy, bodywork is not.
What is the X-pack?
The X-pack was a Ford-approved dealer-fit performance kit with twin Weber carburettors and other upgrades, homologated for rallying. X-pack cars are rarer and worth more, but verify the kit is genuine Ford equipment.
Are RS2000s a good investment?
Genuine, well-documented cars have appreciated strongly and demand remains high. But buy to enjoy first: storage, insurance and maintenance still cost money, and the market can move both ways.
Is it hard to find parts?
No — the Mk2 Escort has one of the best parts supplies of any classic, from service items to full bodyshell panels. Specialists and the owners'' club cover almost everything.

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