Boreham MK1 RS: The Ultimate Ford Escort Restomod | Watch CollectExpert

In the world of classic cars, few models evoke as much affection as the Ford Escort. Produced over six generations from 1967 to 2004, with more than four million units built, the Escort became a staple of British motoring and a formidable competitor in rallying and touring car racing. Now, Boreham Motorworks has reimagined the humble Escort as the MK1 RS, a limited-run restomod that pushes the iconic design into supercar territory.

The Escort Legacy

Launched in 1967 as a replacement for the Anglia, the Escort quickly became a best-seller thanks to its compact dimensions, practical design, and affordable price. It was available in various body styles, including saloons, estates, and vans, and its rear-wheel-drive layout made it a favourite among driving enthusiasts. The Escort's racing pedigree is equally impressive: the RS 1800 won 20 World Rally Championship stages between 1975 and 1981, and the later RS Cosworth became a legend in its own right. Today, well-preserved examples of early Escorts are highly sought after, with the most special versions commanding six-figure sums.

Boreham Motorworks: Masters of the Restomod

Boreham Motorworks first made waves with the Ford Escort RS Alan Mann 68 Edition, a meticulous recreation of the 1968 Alan Mann Racing Escort. Now, they have turned their attention to creating the ultimate road-going Escort: the MK1 RS. Officially licensed by Ford, this is not merely a restored classic but an entirely new car built from the ground up, using modern materials and engineering techniques.

Design and Construction

The MK1 RS retains the iconic silhouette of the original Escort but is enhanced with aggressive details. The wheelbase has been extended, the chassis stiffened, and many steel components replaced with aluminium and titanium to reduce weight. The body panels are partly carbon fibre, resulting in a flawless finish and tight shut lines. Classic double four-spoke wheels fill the bulging wheel arches, while the 'Dog Bone' grille and LED headlights give it a contemporary twist. Inside, the cabin is a blend of luxury and motorsport: leather, carbon fibre, and aluminium trim abound, with dashboard timers on the centre console and carbon-backed bucket seats. An X-shaped strut brace adds rigidity behind the seats, and there's even a moulded storage space for helmets.

The Ten-K Engine: A Masterpiece of Engineering

At the heart of the MK1 RS is the optional Ten-K engine, a 2.1-litre twin-cam four-cylinder that revs to an astonishing 10,000rpm. This is achieved through belt-driven camshafts, individual throttle bodies, a carbon-fibre airbox, and billet or forged internals. The result is 330 horsepower, giving the car a specific output that rivals many supercars. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a close-ratio five-speed dog-leg manual gearbox from Holinger. With a kerb weight of under 900kg, the MK1 RS promises an exhilarating driving experience.

Chassis and Suspension

The MK1 RS features a high-performance suspension setup as standard, including adjustable R53 dampers and struts—the same components used in the GMA T.50. This ensures that the car's handling lives up to its potent powertrain. The stance is aggressive, especially in the gold-over-dark-green paint scheme shown in promotional images.

Price and Availability

Only 150 examples of the Boreham MK1 RS will be built, each starting at €410,000 before options and taxes. While this price may seem astronomical for a Ford Escort, it reflects the extensive engineering and craftsmanship that goes into each car. Boreham Motorworks has already proven its ability to cater to a discerning clientele with the Alan Mann 68 Edition, and the MK1 RS is likely to find favour among collectors seeking the ultimate expression of the Escort legend.

Conclusion

The Boreham MK1 RS is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Ford Escort. By combining classic design with modern technology and materials, Boreham has created a machine that honours the past while delivering performance that can shame contemporary sports cars. For those fortunate enough to afford one, it represents the pinnacle of restomodding.