Ford Escort RS Cosworth is a homologation variant of the Ford Escort built by Ford Europe from 1992 to 1995. The Escort RS Cosworth was a successor to the Sierra RS Cosworth both built as a hot hatch and rally car to compete the Group A class.
Difference from the SIerra RS Cosworth was to accommodate the bigger newer Cosworth engine (as both YBP and YBT) and the gearbox, alongside the body panels, a unique rear wing, etc. The drivetrain comes a permanent AWD with the 34/66 torque distribution and revised synchros on the gearbox. The turbocharged initially with the Garrett larger turbo to spool under low rpm for the 1993 model.
The 1994 model, the small turbo was produced but has increased efficiency with the changes of the engine management system, improve cooling and the ignition system. This small turbo version designed for the road going with downrate by 5-bhp.
The turbo version can be easily identified through it's colour version.
There are the special models of the Escort RS Cosworth to commemorative the race victories including the: Monte Carlo, Miki Biasion, Motorsport edition and up to Wolf Edition, each has it's upgraded drivetrain.
The Escort RS Cosworth was discontinued in 1996, then replaces the Ford Focus RS.
Appearances[]
- In 1994 Old Top Gear episode, Jeremy Clarkson reviews the 1994 Escort RS Cosworth model alongside the newer version of the Toyota Celica GT-Four. He describes both cars the roots of the rallying, then both were roadtested which he flavours the Escort RS Cosworth as fun to drive.
- In Clarkson's Car Years, in New Romantic episode. Jeremy recalls the Escort RS Cosworth as the pinnacle of the rallying and took a joyride.