British company Boreham Motorworks is bringing two iconic Fords back to life, and this time, it’s with the official blessing of the Blue Oval itself. The lucky models are the legendary mid-engined RS200 rally car and the ever-popular Mk1 Escort, both set to receive the resto-mod treatment.
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Boreham Motorworks isn’t exactly a new name in Ford’s motorsport history. Though currently separate, the company’s roots are intertwined with Ford’s racing and rally efforts for decades. This project marks a sweet reunion, with Boreham leveraging its expertise to breathe new life into these automotive icons.
First up is the fearsome RS200. This mid-engined monster dominated the Group B rally scene in the 1980s, battling rivals like the Audi Quattro Sport S1. The RS200 was a technological marvel, boasting a lightweight composite body, an advanced four-wheel-drive system, and a potent Ford-Cosworth BDT engine kicking out a staggering 336 kW.
Boreham’s take on the RS200 stays true to its heritage. While details are scarce (the cars are still under wraps!), expect a silhouette that stays close to the original, with subtle design tweaks like modern LED lighting. More importantly, the core elements that made the RS200 a champion – the mid-engine layout, all-wheel-drive, and lightweight construction – will be faithfully preserved. We can also expect a significant overhaul of the drivetrain and chassis to meet modern performance standards.
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Following hot on the RS200’s heels is the Mk1 Escort. This rally and racing legend from the late 1960s and early 1970s will be recreated using Ford’s original blueprints, ensuring an authentic driving experience. Boreham describes these Escorts as “period-sympathetic,” meaning they’ll capture the essence of the classic while potentially incorporating subtle improvements for better performance and drivability.
The RS200 is set to debut later in 2024, a fitting tribute to the 40th anniversary of the original model’s launch. The Mk1 Escort will follow shortly after. With both cars being built in “very limited numbers,” expect them to be highly coveted (and likely expensive) collector’s items. Boreham Motorworks has also hinted at plans to revive five more iconic Fords in the future, so gearheads, stay tuned – there’s more Blue Oval magic on the horizon!
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