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Curated Auction

1974 Ford Escort RS2000 (Mk1)

At a Glance

Meticulous Restoration | ~9 Year Ownership | Decals Included | Daytona Yellow | Fresh to Market | Show Quality

  • Mileage~35,958 on clock
  • TransmissionManual
  • Engine2.0L
  • LocationStockton-on-Tees

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

CURATED AUCTION

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CURRENT BID£15,000
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AUCTION LIVE

ENDS IN: 56 Days 12 Hr 51 Min 51 Sec

CURRENT BID

£15,000

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Video #2

Introduction

Paul Wright
Professional Consigner

Any Ford RS draws a lot of attention – but wait until you see the condition of this stunning RS2000.

The Mk1 Ford Escort was introduced in the UK at the end of 1967, debuting at the Brussels Motor Show in January 1968. It replaced the long-running and successful Anglia. The Escort quickly became a dominant force in rally racing, eventually earning a reputation as one of the most successful rally cars of all time. The Ford Works team was nearly unbeatable in the late 1960s and early 1970s, with perhaps the Escort's most notable victory being the 1970 London to Mexico World Cup Rally, driven by Finnish legend Hannu Mikkola. This triumph inspired the creation of the Escort Mexico special edition road versions.

In addition to the Mexico, Ford developed the RS1600, which featured a Kent engine block paired with a 16-valve Cosworth cylinder head. These models boasted higher-performance engines, sports suspension, and strengthened bodyshells, making them ideal for rallying. Ford also introduced the RS2000 model as a more reliable alternative to the RS1600. Equipped with a 2.0-litre Pinto engine, the RS2000 was a robust and high-performing vehicle.

This stunning example has undergone a meticulous nut-and-bolt restoration and is now offered for sale following nine years of careful ownership. For the past six years, the car has seen minimal use but has been diligently maintained—started monthly and regularly cared for to preserve its condition.

Presenting in near-factory original specification, the car retains its authentic character. The current owner also has a set of RS2000 decals available, which can be easily applied should the new owner prefer a sportier aesthetic.

This listing was written from information supplied by Paul after meeting Craig the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Video #2

Meet the owner

I’ve had many classic Fords over the years but the Mk1 RS2000 has always been the one I wanted when I was younger.

No stranger to classic cars, and in particular classic Fords, the Mk1 Escort RS2000 had been a dream for Craig since his younger days, where he found the iconic shape of the Mk1 Escort very appealing.

Craig has owned the Escort for nine years and previously it received a complete, no-expense-spared restoration in 2003 by the previous keeper, to pretty much a concours standard; which it still remains in today.

Over the nine years, Craig has used the car very little – in fact, since moving house six years ago, the Escort has not left the garage.

This is a reluctant sale for Craig, as he knows the chances of finding another one like this are quite slim.

Craig
Vehicle Owner

Ask Questions

CONTACT OWNER
EXTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Exterior

The iconic shape of the Mk1 Escort RS2000 features rolled rear arches to accommodate a wider wheel.

Wheels and Tyres

Fitted with four-spoke RS alloys, these are in superb condition with a polished lip and anthracite centre section.

The tyres are all matching and have plenty of tread remaining.

Please see the image gallery for detailed shots.

image

Bodywork

The bodywork is in excellent condition with matching panel gaps all around. There is a very minor ding, if you look closely, on the nearside wing and a small blemish under the paint on the rear panel just below the window, which hasn’t turned into anything more while in Craig’s ownership.

High-resolution images and videos have been provided, so please review all media to assess the car’s condition thoroughly.

image

Paint

Finished in the original Daytona Yellow, the paintwork on the RS2000 is excellent on the outside, inside, and underside.

Craig prefers the simple stripe along the side, however, we do know most RS2000 fans will want to put the original decals on - the good news is Craig has the decals and can easily be fitted to the car by the new owner, if they wish.

Images are taken from multiple angles to give you a realistic impression of the car, just as if you were standing beside it. Please take the time to examine these high-resolution images and videos to assess the condition for yourself.

image

Glass and Trim

The windows are all in very good condition, with just a few faint age-related scratches noted on the door windows. All of the seals look to be in good condition with no perishing or shrinkage.

The front and rear lights are in excellent condition with no damage to the lenses, and the chrome bumpers have a mirror-like finish with no signs of tarnishing.

image
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INTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Interior

Fully retrimmed in the original spec fabric, the interior of the RS2000 is factory fresh.

Seats and Carpets

The original seats have been beautifully retrimmed in the front and rear in fabric to match the original, and are complete with the RS badges. These are in excellent condition with no signs of wear.

Throughout the car, the carpets have been replaced and are therefore in superb condition. Inside the boot, the spare wheel is present along with the jack and wheel brace.

image

Dashboard

The dashboard is in excellent condition with no scratches or damage.

The instruments are working correctly, and the odometer has a reading of ~35,958 miles.

image

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The inside wouldn’t be complete without the RS steering wheel, which is in excellent condition, as is the four-speed gearknob.

Please refer to the interior gallery for more images.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO
Video #2

Mechanics

The 2.0-litre Pinto engine has become as much of an icon as the car itself.

Engine and Gearbox

Used in many models since the release of the Escort, the 2.0-litre Pinto engine is now a tried and tested unit which has stood the test of time. This engine has been fully rebuilt during the restoration and, as you can see from the photographs, presents extremely well in factory condition and runs with no issues.

The four-speed gearbox has also been rebuilt along with the differential.

Gears are easily selected and the RS2000 pulls well through the range.

image

Suspension and Brakes

The suspension has all been replaced with new bushes, ensuring the car handles as you would expect, and there were no knocks or bangs noted on our test drive. The rear does have some lowering blocks fitted, bringing the rear down a little, improving handling and aesthetics.

The brakes bring the car to a stop in a straight line with no juddering through the pedal.

image

The Drive

Driving the Ford Escort RS2000 is a raw, thrilling experience. Its lightweight build, rear-wheel drive, and punchy 2.0-litre engine make it agile and fun, especially on twisty roads. Lacking modern aids, it offers pure, driver-focused enjoyment.

image

Electrics and Other

All of the electrics in the car are said to be working correctly. The switchgear is in good condition, with just a small amount of wear to the lettering on a couple of switches.

The clock is an original RS2000 item and was working when Craig got the car, but this stopped a few months ago - so does need to be looked at by the new owner.

image
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Video #2

History and Paperwork

A stunning car in almost factory standard specification coming from nearly a decade of ownership - this fresh to market car will make a splash in Fast Ford circles.

Unfortunately, there is very little paperwork with the Escort regarding the restoration. When Craig purchased the car, it came from a family estate where the paperwork had been lost. However, just look at the condition – it is clear everything done to the car has been carried out to a high standard.

Ford fans will be standing to attention for this stunning, fully restored 1974 Escort RS2000, which, as you will know, are few and far between – making the opportunity to find one in this condition a very exciting chance to become the next custodian.

We’ve carried out our usual seller checks, including verifying photo ID, the V5C, and an HPI check. This confirms the car has not been stolen, written off, or has any outstanding finance. Please note: This check does not include mileage verification.

We’ve summarised the car based on the seller’s information above. As always, we go to great lengths to photograph and film the car in high-resolution detail so you can make your own informed assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So grab a cuppa, relax, and enjoy reviewing everything in this listing.

Viewings are welcome for all our listings. Please get in touch to arrange a time—we just need to speak with you first and receive valid photo ID before confirming.

If there’s anything you’re unsure about, no matter how small, please ask the owner in the comments section below before placing your bids, as bids cannot be retracted and form a binding contract if you win—just like in a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
13.09.2018 MOT 35,946
18.07.2017 MOT 35,940
07.06.2016 MOT 35,907
02.05.2015 MOT 35,825
15.03.2014 MOT 35,603
12.03.2010 MOT 35,588
29.05.2009 MOT 35,554
09.05.2008 MOT 34,224
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Key Details
  • Model Escort RS2000
  • Transmission Manual
  • Reg. Date 01.11.1974
  • CC 2000
  • Mileage ~35,958 on the clock
  • Colour Daytona Yellow
  • Interior Colour Black
  • Interior Trim Fabric
  • Chassis # BFATPM00076
  • Engine # PM00076
  • Restored Yes
  • Engine Rebuild Yes
  • MOT Exempt Yes
  • Road Tax Exempt Yes
  • HPi Clear Yes - All Clear
  • Former Keepers 12
  • LHD or RHD RHD
  • Visited Yes
  • Sale Type Private
  • Owned 9 Years
  • Key Feature Condition
  • Vehicle Registration GSG 579N
  • Driver’s Side Righ
  • Fuel Type Petrol
  • Body Type Coupe
  • Auction ID 2896
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VIEW ALL
Video #2

All Images

Exterior

Interior

Mechanics

History and Paperwork

All Videos



Vehicle Location

Stockton-on-Tees

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    Auction Bidding

    Live Bidding
    Current Bid £15,000
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    Auction Ends Thu 3rd Jul at 7.00pm
    Bidding History
    Previous Bids  11
    £15,000 bid by Healey22.06.25 @ 14:03:32
    £13,000 bid by Colquhoun022.06.25 @ 12:42:34
    £12,500 bid by JeffO22.06.25 @ 12:03:46
    £12,000 bid by rtmotors21.06.25 @ 11:38:57
    £11,000 bid by flinty6520.06.25 @ 15:47:57
    £10,500 bid by Colquhoun020.06.25 @ 08:57:35
    £10,000 bid by 911mgb20.06.25 @ 07:10:35
    £3,000 bid by bigsuffolkskies19.06.25 @ 13:53:14
    £2,250 bid by Healey19.06.25 @ 13:17:44
    £2,000 bid by GJWEL19.06.25 @ 09:23:12
    £1,000 bid by Healey19.06.25 @ 07:41:29
    SEE MORE BIDS SEE MORE BIDS
    1059
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    3 Comments
    ClassicMartin
    ClassicMartin
    3 days ago

    Hi Craig, can you confirm that this is a matching numbers car, including original shell and engine.
    Kind regards Martin

    CraigW
    CraigW
    Seller
      ClassicMartin
    3 days ago

    Hi Martin
    Can confirm car is a matching numbers car with original shell
    Regards Craig

    CraigW
    CraigW
    Seller
      CraigW
    3 days ago

    Hi Martin engine is the original

    MORE COMMENTS MORE COMMENTS

    Market View

    Restored examples of the Mk1 RS2000 continue to command top prices at auction, some stand out results from the past year.

    We’re sure you have a good idea of the value of this vehicle by studying our thorough listing, however, you may be interested to see a selection of recent sales of the same and / or similar models.

    1974 Ford Escort RS2000 (Mk1)

    Auction House Silverstone Auctions

    Sale Date 22 Feb 25

    Sold Price £59,625

    SEE AUCTION

    1973 Ford Escort RS2000 (Mk1)

    Auction House Us - Trade Classics

    Sale Date 15 Aug 24

    Sold Price £60,420

    SEE AUCTION

    1975 Ford Escort RS2000 (Mk1)

    Auction House Silverstone Auctions

    Sale Date 24 Aug 24

    Sold Price £61,875

    SEE AUCTION

    Insurance Quote


    Average annual insurance premium for a RS2000 like this is £TBC via our trusted partner ClassicLine.
    GET AN INSURANCE QUOTEAnd get 10% off when you mention us.

    *Quote is based on a garaged vehicle in CV32 5QY (Leamington Spa), travelling 3,000 miles per year, 1 driver who is 45 years of age and is free on accidents and convictions – valid Summer 2025.

    Delivery Calculator


    Vehicle Location

    Stockton-on-Tees

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