Mk2 FORD ESCORT RS2000 CUSTOM 'MIDNIGHT BLUE'

FOR SALE

JF Classic Cars are delighted to present for sale this iconic 1980 Mk2 Ford Escort RS2000 Custom finished in the stunning and highly desirable shade of Midnight Blue

DESCRIPTION

Following the enormous success of the original Mk1 Escort and its achievements in motorsport, Ford introduced the Mk2 Escort in January 1975. Building on the reputation of its predecessor, the new model featured sharper, more angular styling while retaining the traditional rear-wheel-drive layout

In January 1976, Ford introduced the highly anticipated Mk2 Escort RS2000, developed as part of its prestigious Rallye Sport (RS) performance range. It was designed to combine genuine sporting ability with everyday usability, offering enthusiasts an exciting, road-going performance car with a strong connection to Ford's successful rallying heritage

The RS2000 Custom specification arrived in September 1978, bringing additional luxury and equipment, The final Mk2 Escorts left production in 1980 marking the end of an important chapter in Ford's rear-wheel-drive sporting heritage

EXTERNAL

Finished in the wonderfully rich and unmistakable shade of Ford Midnight Blue this Mk2 Escort RS2000 Custom perfectly captures the sporting character and unmistakable styling of one of Ford's most celebrated performance models.

The beautifully proportioned two-door bodyshell is defined by its crisp angular lines with the long bonnet gently sloping roofline and sculptured rear quarters combining to create the unmistakable silhouette of the Mk2 Escort. The deep Midnight Blue paintwork provides a superb backdrop to the car's distinctive RS detailing, accentuating the sharp contours and subtle pressing lines of the bodywork.

At the front the unmistakable RS2000 'droop snoot' nose assembly is a defining feature of the model. Its distinctive forward-sloping profile incorporates the integrated front grille and lower air dam, creating an appearance quite unlike any other Mk2 Escort. The front assembly houses the characteristic quartet of circular halogen headlamps arranged in pairs and complemented by the separate front direction indicators. The black detailing within the grille provides an attractive contrast against the Midnight Blue bodywork while the Ford identification badge completes this instantly recognisable front-end design.

Moving along the flanks the clean uninterrupted lines of the front wings, doors and rear quarter panels are complemented by the distinctive twin RS2000 bodyside coach lines. These fine parallel stripes run horizontally along the body following the natural character line of the Escort and adding a subtle yet unmistakably sporting finishing touch. 

The beautifully defined front and rear wheel arch apertures, crisp panel edges and gently sculptured side profile all contribute to the purposeful appearance of the RS2000. The door handles, black door mirrors, window surrounds and exterior rubbers provide complementary darker detailing against the deep blue paintwork, retaining the purposeful, understated appearance of the original design.

The glazing is another important feature of the RS2000 Custom specification. Its distinctive bronze-tinted glass gives the car a subtle period-correct appearance, adding warmth and depth to the Midnight Blue exterior. The laminated front windscreen sits neatly within its original-style rubber surround, while the side windows and rear screen complete the elegant glasshouse. The heated rear window is a particularly useful period feature, with the rear glazing framed by the original-style seals and surrounding trim.

At the rear, the angular boot lid and sculptured quarter panels flow neatly into the distinctive rear light assemblies, with their individual red, amber and clear lens sections providing the unmistakable Mk2 Escort rear-end appearance. 

Completing the exterior styling is the discreet rear lip spoiler, together with the carefully considered black exterior detailing and RS2000 badging. Every element contributes to the purposeful yet elegant appearance that made the Mk2 RS2000 such an enduring favourite among Ford enthusiasts.

An instantly recognisable example of Ford's classic Rallye Sport design, the combination of Midnight Blue paintwork, distinctive RS2000 body styling, twin coachlines and unmistakable droop snoot front end gives this Escort an unmistakable presence.

INTERNAL

Opening the door reveals a wonderfully preserved period interior finished in the highly distinctive and beautifully complementary shade of chocolate brown a colour combination that perfectly captures the character and individuality of the late Mk2 Escort RS2000 Custom.

The cabin is an inviting combination of sporting design and period luxury with the rich brown upholstery extending throughout the interior and providing a warm cohesive appearance. The beautifully sculptured front sports seats feature the iconic fishnet head restraints one of the most recognisable and sought-after details of the RS2000 interior. Finished in complementary brown upholstery the seats incorporate contrasting brown vinyl backs, retaining the authentic appearance and character of the original Custom specification.

The rear seating continues the same carefully coordinated theme, with matching brown upholstery creating a consistent and harmonious finish throughout the cabin.

The dashboard is finished in a complementary dark brown with a tinge of black here and there providing an attractive contrast to the chocolate brown interior trim. Its distinctive angular design incorporates the comprehensive instrument binnacle with a clear arrangement of sporting dials and instrumentation directly ahead of the driver. The speedometer and rev counter take pride of place accompanied by the additional gauges and warning lights necessary to monitor the car's mechanical functions.

Perhaps the most evocative detail is the legendary RS identification badge positioned centrally within the instrument cluster a small but significant reminder of the car's Rallye Sport heritage and an enduring feature of Ford's celebrated performance models.

The central dashboard section houses the period heater and ventilation controls, neatly arranged for ease of operation together with the associated switches and controls. The original-style centre console and surrounding trim further enhance the purposeful yet practical cockpit environment, while the steering wheel and carefully positioned instrumentation complete the unmistakable driving position of the RS2000.

The door interiors are equally well considered, featuring matching chocolate brown door cards with complementary vinyl detailing and coordinated trim inserts. The carpet is colour-matched to the interior, creating a beautifully unified appearance from the footwells through to the rear passenger compartment. Together the carpets, vinyl finishes and upholstered door panels demonstrate the attention to detail that made the Custom specification such an appealing proposition.

Above the cabin is finished with a particularly attractive perforated headlining, a wonderful period detail that adds texture and refinement to the interior. Its carefully finished surface follows the contours of the roof and complements the warm brown upholstery throughout. The combination of the perforated headlining, matching sun visors and coordinated interior finishes creates an inviting environment that feels unmistakably late 1970s and early 1980s Ford.

Everywhere you look, the interior retains the distinctive character that enthusiasts have come to associate with the Mk2 RS2000 Custom. From the unmistakable fishnet head restraints and chocolate brown upholstery to the sporting instrument layout and centrally positioned RS insignia, this is a cabin that combines genuine period charm with the sporting pedigree of one of Ford's most iconic performance models

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

Under the bonnet sits the familiar and highly regarded 2.0-litre Ford Pinto engine, enhanced by a particularly desirable sporting specification. Breathing through a pair of twin 44 IDF carburettors, complete with the correct accompanying airbox, this is a sought-after Group 1 factory upgrade, paying homage to Ford's competition heritage and giving the RS2000 an altogether more purposeful character.

Further enhancing the engine's breathing capabilities is a full stainless-steel Janspeed exhaust system, providing a fitting accompaniment to the twin-carburettor induction setup.

The engine has benefited from a comprehensive rebuild and has covered no more than 250 miles since completion. Further complemented by a new clutch, the engine currently produces an impressive 148bhp.

Power is delivered through a five-speed gearbox, an additional welcome enhancement to the driving experience. Interestingly, despite what the gearlever markings might suggest the car is in fact equipped with a five-speed transmission.

Completing this particularly impressive mechanical package is the original plated differential, incorporating a limited-slip differential (LSD), providing enhanced traction and helping to put the engine's performance effectively onto the road.

Combining the unmistakable character of the Pinto engine, twin 44 IDF carburettors, Group 1 induction, Janspeed stainless-steel exhaust, five-speed transmission and plated limited-slip differential, this RS2000 Custom offers a wonderfully evocative blend of period Ford competition heritage and carefully considered performance enhancements.

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES

A particularly significant feature of this RS2000 Custom is its highly desirable 7-inch Ronal alloy wheels, specified as a special factory option and representing a period Group 1 upgrade closely associated with Ford's motorsport heritage. These distinctive alloys enhance the car's stance and sporting presence, perfectly complementing the purposeful character of the Mk2 RS2000. They are shod with premium tyres, providing an appropriate combination of period styling, grip and road-holding capability.

The braking system retains the traditional RS2000 configuration, comprising disc brakes to the front and drum brakes to the rear, delivering dependable stopping performance in keeping with the car's sporting credentials

HISTORY FILE

Perhaps one of the most compelling aspects of this particular Mk2 Ford Escort RS2000 Custom is its history, provenance and remarkably well-preserved condition.

Supplied new by Gilbert Rice on 15th April 1980 this genuine 1980 example has enjoyed just seven former keepers from new, a particularly appealing ownership history for a vehicle of this age. Importantly, the car also retains its matching-numbers identity, adding further significance to its provenance and originality.

At some point during its life, the car benefited from a comprehensive nut-and-bolt restoration subsequently being maintained and preserved to an exceptionally high standard. The quality of its presentation today is testament to the care and attention invested in its preservation.

The car received a full repaint approximately 22 years ago, which has stood the test of time exceptionally well. The Midnight Blue finish continues to present beautifully, retaining a wonderful depth of colour and lustre. Of particular significance is the condition of the underlying bodyshell, which has never required welding and, importantly, does not require any today. A testament to its preservation is the fact that the car was Ziebart-treated from new, providing an additional layer of protection throughout its life.

Accompanying the vehicle is its original Ford service book, complete with numerous service stamps, together with reams of historic invoices documenting previous maintenance, mechanical improvements and general upkeep. This comprehensive supporting history provides a fascinating insight into the car's life and the care and attention it has received from previous custodians.

What makes this RS2000 particularly special is the combination of its documented history, remarkably sound bodyshell and highly desirable period performance specification. The twin 44 IDF carburettors with the correct airbox, Group 1 induction equipment, 7-inch Ronal alloy wheels, Janspeed stainless-steel exhaust system and plated limited-slip differential all contribute to a specification that pays homage to Ford's celebrated competition heritage.

Further enhanced by its recently rebuilt engine, producing an impressive 148bhp, and five-speed gearbox, this is an Escort that offers considerably more than just attractive presentation.

Bringing together its original supplying dealer, matching-numbers identity, limited ownership history, comprehensive restoration, original service documentation, extensive historic invoices, Ziebart protection

HPi Clear And v5 Present.