The MK1 RS, along with the RS, have become very desirable collector cars due to their success in motorsport, most notably in rallying. Like many collector cars, the RS was built on the standard MK1 coupe bodyshell with some difficult to spot modifications , and therefore potential for "replicas" in this particular model is significant.
This guide attempts to provide information about the MK1 RS so people can confirm whether the cars they are looking at purchasing or restoring are in fact genuine cars. This guide provides information and identification criteria for external features, interior features, vehicle options and of course the relevant engine and chassis numbers which were unique to the MK1 RS Number produced: 5, units built 3, sold in the UK market.
Please note that this page has been drafted as a guide only, and should not be relied upon without seeking professional advice. We hope you find this guide interesting and useful, and really appreciate it if you would share Classic Register and like our Facebook page! The MK1 RS had the following external features which make a good starting point for identification of a genuine car:.
Note, many of these features are not necessarily unique to the RS, and may have been shared amongst other escort models in the MK1 range. The Ford Escort RS was originally available in the following paint colours listed below, and demonstrated in the images. The colour of the corresponding side stripes is also given next to the colour. The paint code is listed on the cars chassis plate under "Colour", where the Ford code will be listed.
The colour is also mentioned on the AVO plate, which provides an additional point of confirmation. Note, if a car was special order, the code "Y" would appear on the chassis plate, and an individual colour applied, which would hopefully be described in the vehicles order records.
