Ford RS200 (1998)

When the Mk3 Escort launched in 1980, Ford already needed to go faster for the ever evolving Group B rally guidelines. Having dominated until this point with the Mk2 Escort, it was imperative for Ford to remain ahead of the game. Toying around with the Mk3, 18 prototypes were built to be known as the RS1700T- turbocharged to c.300hp and RWD. With a line 200 homologated cars already in the works, it wasn't until the 11th hour that the then new head of motorsport, Stuart Turner insisting on a scratch built 4x4 car.

In 1984, the RS200 was launched. Unique in design and styled by Ghia, it used a mid-mounted 1.8 litre Garrett-turbocharged powerplant and front mounted gearbox for perfect 50/50 weight distribution. Group B regulations stipulated that a homologation run of 200 units had to be produced – however as few as 90 road cars were sold by Ford with the remainder sold as spares or straight to competition. Success was immediate on the rally scene with the RS200 finding the podium on its first competitive outing. Unfortunately after a series of incidents, Group B met its demise.

With no future Group B events, the RS200 was increasingly ineligible for events and demand dropped leaving many cars unsold. As part of a deal by one entrepreneur, a batch of twenty cars were destined for Canada. These 20 were ordered with the intention of creating a 'best of' RS200 and a proposed renaming to 'RS200S'. Unfortunately given the rules around homologation and type approval, the 'S' could never be an officially badged model. It did however feature the significant power upgrade from 250 to 350hp, capable of taking the car to 180mph with the right gearing. Fitted too were red Recaro's as per the Road Specification of the 'S' and a matching red steering wheel. Additionally electric windows and extra air intakes were added to enhance performance and driveability. The 'S' cars also came fitted with a second gear stick, allowing the driver to alternate the torque delivery of the four wheel drive system between rear-wheel drive, 50:50 four-wheel drive or 37:63 four-wheel drive.

Founded in 1965, Kent-based R.T Quaife Engineering initially operated from a small workshop producing close-ratio five-speed gear kits for Norton and Triumph motorcycles. Moving away from two wheels and over to four, Quaife’s popularity and successes grew exponentially, seeing the introduction of a range of purpose-built motorsport sequential transmissions as well as the famous ATB locking-differential.

Forging a long-term partnership with Ford at a manufacturer level, Quaife’s motorsport endeavours were heavily reliant on their relationship with the blue oval. Michael Quaife competed in British Rallycross in an Escot powered by an 1800 BDT (RS200 engine) with the help of Gordon Spooner Engineering – Ford’s factory preparer - later leading to the development of an Escort Cosworth to race in British GT before building his own four-wheel drive GT1 race car.

Testament to this working relationship, after Ford’s termination of the RS200 project, Michael Quaife heard of their intention to dispose of the remaining parts and managed to negotiate a deal to acquire the entirety. These spares included unbuilt tubs, body panels, engines and additional componentry.

With sufficient components in the remaining Ford stock to commission the construction of a complete car, this task was entrusted to very same team at Gordon Spooner Engineering who completed Ford’s factory rally cars, resulting in the assembly of this example post-production. Parts that were missing included hens-teeth rear uprights; a problem Quaife solved by re-casting from original parts with the help of patterns.

Powered by a 1.8-litre turbocharged engine coupled to a Ford 5-speed transmission, this example was completed largely to factory specification. Revised camshafts and other motorsport-specification upgrades see the car output around 400hp which sits around halfway from the homologated road cars and the Group B cars.

Differentiating itself from the standard homologation examples, this car is notably the sole example finished in silver. Furthermore, larger 18” Raceline competition wheels allow for the fitment of open back AP Racing front callipers and discs. The exterior further sees a full rally-spec lamp pod with correct Hella 2000 lenses and cover, the Evolution specification ‘bunny-ears’ – roof mounted air intakes.

The interior sees red bucket seats and the iconic red-rimmed steering wheel. The interior is exactly as per a standard car with the exception of the upgraded carbon fibre door cards. Offered today for sale for the first time, this example presents on the button. Recomissioned by specialist BGM Sport in June 2026 in preparation for sale, this RS200 received new high pressure fuel pumps, a new alternator and a turbocharger rebuild as well as a service and further works to the tune of £13,500.

This remarkable post-production example of Ford’s greatest rally car is available to view at our showrooms outside London immediately.

• Completed by Michael Quaife using Ford-supplied RS200 parts
• Built and retained by Michael Quaife following its completion
• Built alongside Gordon Spooner Engineering, the team responsible for Ford's rally programme
• Subject to £13,500 of recommissioning work in preparation for sale
• Understood to be the sole silver RS200 example