Ford Focus RS Mk1
A raw, rally-bred icon that returned the RS badge to its former glory.
- Power
- 212 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.4 s
- Top speed
- 144 mph
- Est. value
- $21k–$95k
About the Ford Focus RS Mk1
The Mk1 Focus RS was a skunkworks project that saw Ford of Europe re-engineer 70% of the standard Focus to create a front-wheel-drive monster. It features a Garrett-turbocharged Duratec engine, Sparco bucket seats, and a mechanical Quaife limited-slip differential that gives it legendary, if sometimes unruly, front-end grip. All 4,501 units were finished in Imperial Blue, making it one of the most recognisable modern classics of the 2000s. While it was criticised for torque steer when new, its raw, analogue feedback has made it a highly sought-after collector car today.
Ford Focus RS Mk1 specs
The Ford Focus RS Mk1 produces 212 bhp (158 kW) and 310 Nm (229 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.4 seconds and has a top speed of 144 mph (232 km/h).
| Make | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | Focus RS |
| Generation | Mk1 |
| Trim | 2.0 Turbo |
| Years | 2002–2003 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 4,501 built |
| Engine | 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,988 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 212 bhp (158 kW) at 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 310 Nm (229 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.4 s |
| Top speed | 144 mph (232 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,278 kg (2,818 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 166 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 Focus RS Mk1 worth?
A typical Ford Focus RS Mk1 is estimated to be worth $21,000 – $95,000 (about £16,000 – £71,000).
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 Focus RS Mk1 rarity in CarSpot
The Ford Focus RS Mk1 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 42 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 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 Focus RS Mk1 fun facts
- Ford reportedly lost approximately £4,000 on every Mk1 Focus RS sold due to the high cost of its bespoke components.
- The car was only available in one colour, Imperial Blue, as a tribute to Ford's World Rally Championship livery.
- It features a unique 'start' button on the carbon-fibre centre console, a novelty for production cars in 2002.
