Ford Escort RS1800 Mk2
The ultimate homologation Escort and the foundation of a rallying dynasty.
- Power
- 115 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.3 s
- Top speed
- 113 mph
- Est. value
- $150k–$350k
About the Ford Escort RS1800 Mk2
The Escort RS1800 is one of the rarest and most significant 'Fast Fords' ever produced, serving as the homologation base for Ford's dominant Group 4 rally efforts. While it looks like a standard Mk2 Escort, it features a strengthened bodyshell and the legendary 16-valve Cosworth BDA engine. Only 109 road-going examples were officially built, mostly finished in Diamond White, making it a holy grail for collectors. On the road, it is defined by its high-revving, mechanical character and the balanced, tail-happy handling that made it a WRC icon.
Ford Escort RS1800 Mk2 specs
The Ford Escort RS1800 Mk2 produces 115 bhp (86 kW) and 171 Nm (126 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.3 seconds and has a top speed of 113 mph (182 km/h).
| Make | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | Escort RS1800 |
| Generation | Mk2 |
| Trim | 1.8 BDA |
| Years | 1975–1977 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 109 built |
| Engine | 1.8-litre Cosworth BDA inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,835 cc (1.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 115 bhp (86 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 171 Nm (126 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.3 s |
| Top speed | 113 mph (182 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 980 kg (2,161 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 117 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 RS1800 Mk2 worth?
A typical Ford Escort RS1800 Mk2 is estimated to be worth $150,000 – $350,000 (about £112,000 – £261,000).
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 RS1800 Mk2 rarity in CarSpot
The Ford Escort RS1800 Mk2 is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 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 RS1800 Mk2 fun facts
- Most RS1800s were actually built by taking German-made RS Mexico shells and installing the BDA engines at Ford's Aveley plant in Essex.
- A 1976 press demonstrator set a world record for the model in 2025, selling at auction for over £275,000.
- Despite its road-car status, the RS1800 was so focused that early versions lacked a glovebox and centre console to save weight.
