1987 FORD ESCORT RS TURBO S2 BLACK 22456mls

FOR SALE

JF Classic Cars are delighted to present this outstanding 1987 Ford Escort RS Turbo Series 2 one of the most recognisable and celebrated performance hatchbacks of the 1980s. Combining turbocharged power with distinctive RS styling and covered only 22456 miles from new

DESCRIPTION

The Ford Escort RS Turbo Series 2 was introduced in 1986 as a more refined yet equally exhilarating evolution of the original RS Turbo. Produced exclusively at Ford’s Halewood plant it was engineered to combine spirited performance with everyday practicality a car capable of turning heads while delivering genuine driving excitement

Visually, the Series 2 was defined by its sculpted aerodynamic body kit, colour-coded bumpers, and distinctive RS detailing. It also benefited from notable improvements in build quality and mechanical refinement compared with its predecessor

The model quickly cemented its status as one of Ford’s most iconic hot hatches, offering turbocharged performance, unmistakable styling, and a desirability that remains as strong today as it was in the late 1980s.

This particular example is presented in its original factory specification and has covered just 22,456 miles from new. It stands as an exceptionally original and well-preserved RS Turbo, a genuine credit to its careful preservation over the years

EXTERNAL

Finished in its factory correct Ford Black paintwork this 1988 Ford Escort RS Turbo Series 2 presents in exceptional condition throughout. The paintwork displays a deep, mirror-like gloss across every panel, accentuating the sharp lines and unmistakable RS Turbo design. The bodywork remains impressively straight, with crisp, even shut lines that clearly reflect the care and attention the car has received from new.

All original factory decals and RS badging remain in place and correct, still bright and well-preserved. The distinctive factory body styling including the integrated front spoiler, side skirts, and rear valance all presented in excellent condition free from damage or scuffing, further highlighting the car’s low mileage and carefully maintained life.

At the front, the original Ford headlamps and spot lamps are fitted and remain clear and unmarked with no signs of chips, cracks, or deterioration. The grille, bumpers, and surrounding trim pieces retain a rich, consistent black finish without fading or distortion, contributing to the car’s authentic and highly original appearance.

The car also retains its original glazing throughout, each pane carrying the correct factory etchings. Window surrounds and door rubbers remain supple and well preserved, showing none of the deterioration often seen on cars of this era.

Overall, this Escort RS Turbo represents a true time capsule example, with exterior presentation that perfectly reflects how an unspoiled, original Ford performance icon of the 1980s should appear....sharp, glossy, and unmistakably period-correct.

INTERNAL

The interior of this 1988 Ford Escort RS Turbo Series 2 is presented in outstanding, highly original condition and perfectly reflects the car’s remarkably low mileage of just 22,456 miles from new.

The factory Recaro sports seats remain beautifully preserved, retaining their correct cloth trim with excellent colour, structure, and support. Both the driver and passenger seats show minimal signs of wear, while the rear seats appear virtually unused a clear indication of the careful ownership this car has enjoyed throughout its life.

The dashboard, centre console, and interior trim panels remain in exceptional order, free from fading or distortion. All original switchgear and instrumentation remain in place and fully consistent with factory specification. Notably, the car retains its optional upgraded factory-fitted Ford Graphic Equaliser and Trip Computer, both desirable period features that further enhance the authenticity and appeal of this example.

Underfoot, the interior is complemented by the correct Ford ‘Waffle’ rubber mats, which remain in superb condition and help protect the original carpeting beneath.

The steering wheel, gear knob, and pedal rubbers all display only light, age-appropriate signs of use, entirely consistent with the car’s low mileage and careful preservation.

Overall, the cabin offers a wonderfully original and authentic environment, capturing the unmistakable character of Ford’s iconic eighties performance hatchback while standing as a testament to its low mileage and exceptional level of preservation

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

Powering this Ford Escort RS Turbo Series 2 is Ford’s well-known 1.6-litre OHC CVH fuel-injected engine, working in conjunction with the iconic Garrett AiResearch T3 turbocharger and intercooler a combination that became synonymous with the golden age of hot hatch performance.

With an output of 132bhp the lightweight RS Turbo delivers lively and engaging performance capable of accelerating from 0–60 mph in approximately 8.2 seconds and reaching a top speed of around 128 mph figures that remain impressive for a performance hatchback of its era.

The engine bay is presented in exceptionally original condition, remaining completely standard and free from modification. It clearly reflects careful stewardship and proper maintenance over the years. 

Detailing within the engine bay remains true to factory specification, with Motorcraft branded ignition leads, hoses, and service components still in place and well preserved. This level of originality highlights the car as a particularly well-kept and correct example, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Power is delivered through a five-speed manual gearbox, which engages cleanly and positively through all gears while the clutch action remains light and precise

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES

This Ford Escort RS Turbo Series 2 sits on its correct 15-inch light grey alloy wheels all of which remain in excellent condition. The wheels display beautifully free from corrosion or notable marks, further reflecting the careful ownership this car has enjoyed. Shod with premium tyres on each corner displaying ample even tread

Braking is handled by servo-assisted ventilated discs at the front and rear drums, delivering dependable stopping power and stability 

The RS Turbo’s purpose-built suspension system also remains faithful to factory design. At the front, independent MacPherson struts with coil springs and telescopic gas dampers provide sharp steering response and control, while the rear setup utilises a beam axle with trailing arms and coil springs. Together, these components deliver the balanced blend of agility and everyday comfort that made the RS range so highly regarded.

Overall, the running gear reflects the same level of originality and careful maintenance seen throughout the rest of the car, resulting in a vehicle that is not only visually impressive but also composed, precise, and rewarding to drive.

A genuine and unmodified example of Ford’s legendary turbocharged hot hatch, rarely encountered today in such well-preserved and factory-correct condition

HISTORY FILE

Registered new on the 28th September 1987 this highly original Ford Escort Rs Turbo s2 has covered only 22456 miles from new, With such low mileage this has been enshrined away in collections and only seeing moderate use over its lifespan 

For enthusiasts and collectors alike, it stands as a highly desirable example of a true hot hatch legend, and one that is becoming increasingly difficult to find in such honest, unmodified, and well-preserved form.

Ready to be used or to sit in a collection

V5 Present & HPi Clear.