- Boreham Motorworks has unveiled a modern Mk1 Ford Escort RS
- One of the available engines revs to 10,000 rpm and delivers 296 hp
- Pricing starts at $375,000
The original Ford Escort sold in Europe was a popular economy car whose production spanned decades and also got Ford started in rallying. The Mk1 Escort would eventually become one of the most successful rally cars of all time, especially in RS guise.
The Mk1 ceased production in 1975, but now the U.K.’s Boreham Motorworks has brought it back with a modern continuation example built from the ground up using blueprints and other design materials from the originals.
Boreham’s version, known as the Escort Mk1 RS Continumod, uses a new chassis with continuation VINs approved by Ford. The car also benefits from modern technology while staying true to the spirit of the original.
Pricing starts at 295,000 British pounds (approximately $375,000), and the first prototype example will be shown to the public by mid-2025 ahead of production, which is set to start later that year. Just 150 examples will be built for worldwide sale.
Buyers have two powertrains to choose from: a standard 1.8-liter inline-4 rated at 182 hp or a 2.1-liter inline-4 that revs to 10,000 rpm and delivers 296 hp. While those numbers don’t seem high in comparison with many modern performance cars, the target weight for Boreham’s Mk1 Escort is 800 kilograms, or about 1,767 pounds. Each engine will come paired to a manual transmission (a 4-speed for the standard engine and a 5-speed for the performance option), with drive sent to the rear wheels only.
Like the exterior, the interior is a blend of new and old. A standout element is the low, horizontal dashboard, creating an open and spacious feel. While analog gauges and controls dominate the cabin, a small digital screen in the center stack accommodates the infotainment system. Customers can opt for either left- or right-hand-drive configurations.
Boreham Motorworks is part of DRVN Automotive Group, which also operates a Koenigsegg dealership in London, as well as companies offering restomod and restoration services for the Ferrari F355 and Jaguar E-Type. In addition to the Escort, Boreham is working on a modern interpretation of the iconic Ford RS200 homologation special of the 1980s.
Some of Boreham’s Fords may get enhancements from Alan Mann Racing at some point. Alan Mann originally raced Fords like the Mk1 Escort, and earlier this year, it also became part of the DRVN Automotive Group.