Boreham Motorworks has unveiled a stunning reimagining of a classic, the New Ford Escort Mk1 RS, creating a ‘Continumod’ that blends heritage with cutting-edge technology. This limited-edition vehicle, with only 150 units planned worldwide, each boasting continuation chassis numbers, is not just a restomod; it’s a ground-up recreation forged in partnership with Ford Motor Company. Instead of starting with a donor car, Boreham Motorworks builds each Escort Mk1 RS from scratch, utilizing modern materials and advanced manufacturing techniques to elevate this iconic model to new heights of performance and desirability.
Boreham Motorworks stands as an official brand license partner of the Ford Motor Company, a testament to their dedication to preserving and enhancing the legacy of Ford’s most celebrated vehicles. This unique ‘Continumod’ approach sets them apart from traditional restomodders. The new Ford Escort emerges not from a refurbished classic, but as a brand-new vehicle that captures the essence of the original while pushing the boundaries of performance and engineering.
Under the hood, buyers of the new Ford Escort Mk1 RS are presented with two compelling engine choices, each designed to deliver a unique driving experience. The first option pays homage to the Escort’s heritage: an enhanced version of the iconic twin-cam engine. Increased to 1.8-liters, this engine produces a robust 185hp and is paired with a classic 4-speed manual “Ford bullet” synchromesh straight-cut transmission, offering a raw and engaging driving feel reminiscent of the original.
For those seeking unparalleled performance, Boreham offers an all-new, motorsport-derived 2.1-liter four-cylinder engine. This engineering marvel is constructed from cast and billet components, resulting in a remarkably lightweight unit, weighing under 85kg. Revving to an astonishing 10,000rpm, this engine features double overhead camshafts and a chain cam drive, unleashing a breathtaking 300hp. The engine’s internal components are equally impressive, featuring forged steel conrods, a billet crankshaft, and a bespoke titanium exhaust system meticulously tuned for optimal performance. Power is delivered through a close-ratio 5-speed dogleg gearbox, ensuring perfect weight distribution and precise gear changes, complemented by bespoke gear ratios tailored for this high-performance application in the new Ford Escort.
In terms of driving dynamics, the new Ford Escort Mk1 RS is engineered for exceptional handling and responsiveness. It boasts an optimized weight distribution of 55:45, contributing to balanced and agile cornering. The front suspension features MacPherson struts, while the suspension geometry has been meticulously optimized to enhance overall performance. Further contributing to its dynamic capabilities are a new lightweight, aluminum and titanium fully floating rear axle, an advanced limited-slip ATB differential, and coil-over dampers, all working in harmony to enhance stability and control. Staying true to the purist driving experience, Boreham has intentionally omitted driving aids such as power steering, ABS, traction control, or brake servo, placing the driver firmly in control of this exhilarating machine.
The new Ford Escort Mk1 RS rolls on tires sized 205/50 x 15 at the front and 225/50 x 15 at the rear, a nod to the original Mk1 Escort’s styling while providing modern levels of grip and performance. Braking is handled by substantial 260mm x 25mm vented discs with four-piston calipers at the front, and 264mm x 11mm solid discs with two-piston calipers at the rear, providing ample stopping power to match the car’s performance capabilities.
Boreham Motorworks Ford Escort Mk1 RS Interior
Weight reduction was a critical focus in the development of the new Ford Escort Mk1 RS, with Boreham targeting an 800kg overall weight. To achieve this ambitious goal, the hood, trunk lid, and all interior substrates are crafted from lightweight carbon fiber. Further weight savings are realized through the use of lightweight materials within the rear axle and the option for forged magnesium wheels, contributing to the car’s impressive agility and performance.
Inside the new Ford Escort Mk1 RS, the cockpit offers a modern, driver-centric environment that carefully balances lightweight construction with driver comfort. While focused on performance, Boreham acknowledges modern expectations by offering optional features such as heated screens, air conditioning with four vents for enhanced climate control, and a dedicated screen demist function, ensuring a degree of practicality and comfort even in this high-performance machine.
The starting price for this exclusive new Ford Escort Mk1 RS is £295,000 (US$374,588). This investment includes a two-year, 20,000-mile warranty, providing peace of mind for owners of this meticulously crafted vehicle. The public and press will have their first opportunity to experience the new Ford Escort Mk1 RS in the summer of 2025, with production scheduled to commence in Q3 of the same year. This reimagined icon is poised to capture the hearts of classic car enthusiasts and performance driving aficionados alike.
