Estimated Price: £30,000 - £40,000

Based on the success of its predecessor, the Ford Escort RS Turbo Series 2 was a more refined and usable evolution of the original homologation special. Ford’s engineers took the proven 1.6-litre CVH engine from the Series 1 and fitted a water-cooled Garrett T3 turbocharger, revised the engine management, added a larger clutch, improved KE-Jetronic injection and a more efficient intercooler. Further developments included lower overall gearing, an improved gearbox with a limited-slip differential, stiffer springs, uprated anti-roll bars, mechanical ABS, and larger brakes, all contributing to a much more civilised and capable hot-hatch.

The result was a car that retained the raw performance and character of the Series 1 but was far more suited to daily use, while still delivering the punchy, turbocharged performance that defined Ford’s RS division through the 1980s. Producing around 130bhp and capable of 130mph, the RS Turbo Series 2 remains one of the most iconic and sought-after hot-hatches of its era.

This superb example was acquired by our esteemed collector vendor in 2013 and has since formed part of his exceptional private collection, housed in a temperature-controlled environment among other significant performance Fords and low-mileage modern classics. Presenting beautifully throughout and having covered just 22,455 miles from new, the car’s condition is entirely commensurate with such careful preservation.

Finished in Factory Black with a grey interior, this RS Turbo boasts the specification of the day including a Ford radio with graphic equaliser, heated front screen, and fuel computer. It runs and drives well and features a few subtle upgrades including a 1990-spec interior, a larger intercooler and a big-bore exhaust. These minor enhancements have been tastefully applied and do not detract from the car’s originality or collectability.

For peace of mind, a mechanical once-over is recommended before regular use, as the car has remained largely static for the last few years as part of the collection. Unfortunately the original paperwork and bookpacks have been misplaced over the years, along with the V5C so a V55/5 will need to be applied for on behalf of the new owner.

With fast Fords of the 1980s continuing to surge in desirability, this ultra-low-mileage, collector-quality Escort RS Turbo Series 2 is an exceptional example of the breed, the perfect blend of performance, provenance and preservation.