The Escort RS Cosworth was launched in 1992 as an homologation special where its sole purpose was to incorporate parts that Ford planned to use in their rally cars to ensure success in International Rallying.

The first 2,500 cars, the homologation special examples, were built up to May 1994 and notoriously suffered from turbo-lag, but the next 4,500 were improved, largely thanks to their smaller Garrett T25 Turbo.

Two models were available, the Club-spec standard car and the all singing, all dancing Lux version.

Power was increased by over 10% from the Sierra RS Cosworth, now making 227bhp, with performance unsurprisingly improved.

In 1995, the RS Cosworth was treated to a mild facelift, receiving a new honeycomb grille, restyled bumpers, a more attractive fascia and revised alloy wheels.

Manufacture continued until early 1996 when emissions regulations forced it out of production.

Like pretty much every RS Ford, it was a classic from the moment it arrived on the market.

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