Ford Escort RS1600i Mk3
A fuel-injected homologation special designed to conquer Group A touring car racing.
- Power
- 115 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.7 s
- Top speed
- 117 mph
- Est. value
- $32k–$65k
About the Ford Escort RS1600i Mk3
The RS1600i was developed by Ford Motorsport in Germany as a homologation special for Group A competition, aiming to rectify the shortcomings of the standard XR3. It features a unique cylinder head with solid lifters, a twin-coil ignition system, and K-Jetronic fuel injection. The chassis was significantly upgraded with adjustable twin longitudinal rear links and a specific front suspension geometry to improve handling. Recognisable by its deep front spoiler and distinctive graphics, it remains one of the most technically interesting fast Fords of the 1980s.
Ford Escort RS1600i Mk3 specs
The Ford Escort RS1600i Mk3 produces 115 bhp (86 kW) and 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.7 seconds and has a top speed of 117 mph (188 km/h).
| Make | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | Escort RS1600i |
| Generation | Mk3 |
| Trim | RS1600i |
| Years | 1982–1983 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 8,659 built |
| Engine | 1.6-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 115 bhp (86 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.7 s |
| Top speed | 117 mph (188 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 945 kg (2,083 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 122 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Ford Escort RS1600i Mk3 worth?
A typical Ford Escort RS1600i Mk3 is estimated to be worth $32,000 – $65,000 (about £24,000 – £48,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Ford Escort RS1600i Mk3 rarity in CarSpot
The Ford Escort RS1600i Mk3 is an Epic card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 61 out of 100. Supercars and serious performance cars, typically worth around £100,000 to £250,000. An Epic card is worth 80 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Ford Escort RS1600i Mk3 fun facts
- The RS1600i was the first front-wheel-drive Ford to wear the RS badge, preceding the RS Turbo.
- It utilised a unique twin-coil ignition system controlled by a computerised module, a highly advanced feature for a production car in 1982.
- While 5,000 units were required for homologation, its popularity led to a total production run of 8,659 units, with 2,600 reaching the UK.
