Estimated Price: £32,000 - £42,000

By 2018, the Ford Focus RS MkIII was already a well established benchmark in modern hot-hatches, coming out the blocks as an all-wheel drive, driver-focussed rocket, built with far more conviction than anyone had expected from Ford. The RS Red Edition marked the final flourish of this celebrated chapter. A numbered production run of 300, exclusively for the UK-market, designed as a special send-off for a model that had represented a fabulous carrying of the torch for Ford’s hot-hatch credentials.

RS18 LTD, one of the 300, is presented in the exclusive Race Red, set apart visually by a Gloss Black contrast roof, black mirror caps and 19" forged alloy wheels finished in black. As with all Red Editions, the factory specification includes the Quaife limited-slip front differential, part of Ford’s final chassis revision for the RS platform. This differential, combined with the advanced torque-vectoring all-wheel drive system and bespoke RS suspension tuning, gave the Red Edition a sharper edge and greater traction than earlier examples.

Inside, the Red Edition was trimmed with part-leather Recaro shell seats with carbon-effect detailing, an Alcantara steering wheel and a full SYNC3 infotainment system with navigation and rear camera. Keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, heated seats and steering wheel and rear parking sensors are also standard fit, making it a highly usable yet driver-focused package.

This particular car was supplied new by Vospers in Plymouth and has covered just 5,925 miles from new in the hands of its two owners. Offered in showroom condition, it represents an outstanding example of one of Ford’s most focused and desirable RS models. Coming with it’s original book pack and service history stamped five times, most recently in 2022 at 5,210 miles.

The car is offered with its highly desirable and fitting RS18 LTD registration number, a nod to both its year and limited edition nature. The vendor has previously turned down a £5,000 offer for the plate, choosing instead to keep it united with the car and it does form part of the sale.

With demand for collectible RS-badged Fords showing such strength, especially low-mileage special editions being limited in number and growing in desirability, this represents a highly appealing opportunity. With its lovely low mileage, rare specification and appropriate registration, this is undoubtedly amongst the finest RS Red Editions currently available.

Offered from enthusiast ownership and presented in superb order throughout, this is a fitting tribute to Ford’s greatest hot-hatch and one for any discerning enthusiast or collector.