1988 Ford Escort RS Turbo | Projects

1988 Ford Escort RS Turbo

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The Project

This 1988 Ford Escort RS Turbo arrived at our Carrosserie workshop in December 2023. It’s in for works to the rear of the car due to corrosion damage. This includes a new back panel which will be installed and some fabrication repair work is also required.

Updates

11th April 2024: The back section has been cut away to make way for the new back panel. There is some fabrication work required to both corners of the rear quarters due to corrosion damage before the new panel can be fitted.

> More updates to follow.

History

Fast Ford icons don’t come much more affordable and attainable than the Escort RS Turbo. The 1980s’ road racer that’s now becoming a classic.

February 1986: Escort Mk4 range launched, including XR3i with fuel-injected 104bhp 1.6-litre CVH powerplant plus upgraded suspension, 6x14in steel wheels, spoilers and sports seats with Daytona cloth. Optional dogleg 6x14in alloy wheels. Colours available: Diamond White, Rosso Red, Black or Nimbus Grey.

15 July 1986: Escort RS Turbo Series Two becomes available, featuring revised version of Series One’s 1.6-litre CVH (130bhp) and gearbox. Closely based on the XR3i, the RS Turbo adds 6x15in alloy wheels, driving lamps, bonnet vents, wheelarch extensions, side skirts, colour-coded rear spoiler and window surrounds. Optional Custom Pack includes electric front windows, central locking and tilting/sliding glass sunroof.

January 1987: Recaro front seats in Daytona cloth become part of Custom Pack.

July 1987: Custom Pack becomes standard on all RS Turbos. Radiant Red replaces Rosso and Mercury Grey replaces Nimbus.

September 1988: Heated windscreen, revised decals, Zolda upholstery and grey headlining are added to the specification.

September 1989: Facelifted RS Turbo (now referred to as ’90-spec) arrives with deeper front bumper, wrapped-over rear spoiler, extended centre console, rear-seat courtesy light and variable-speed intermittent wipers.

October 1990: Escort Mk4 discontinued, after UK RS Turbo sales of 22,108. Escort Mk5 launched with no RS Turbo replacement.

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Great friendly and helpful team at Carrosserie. Highly quality work. This is the second time I've used their services.

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