The RS2000 was based on the two door, rear wheel drive MKII Escort of the time. This Escort MKII (Mark 2) RS was produced in the UK from 1975 to 1981.

The RS2000 engine was a 2 litre in-line four cylinder four stroke. This was mounted longitudinally, with the gearbox attached to the rear of the engine. Power was then fed via a prop shaft to the rear differential and then onto the rear wheels.

The engine displaced a total of 1993cc and was fitted with a Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC).

Carburation was via a single progressive twin venturi 32/36 DGAV Weber with the option of "Group 1" dual Weber 40 DCNF downdraught unit, both units fed via a paper based air filter. Twin 45 DCOE's could be fitted only if the battery was relocated to the boot. The use of Four Star leaded petrol was recommended.

The ignition system was a standard pre-electronic system using a conventional ignition coil and distributor feeding the four spark plugs. Spark generation was via conventional contract breakers (points) and capacitor.

A four speed gearbox was fitted, which was mounted at the rear of the engine.

Front suspension was via independent MacPherson struts with anti-roll bar. Rear suspension used leaf springs with telescopic dampers. Steering was non power-assisted and used a rack and pinion.

Braking was via front mounted solid disks and rear drums.

The wheels were a distinctive four spoke alloy design.

One of the most striking features of the RS2000 MKII was the front nose cone which housed the twin headlights. The RS2000 MKII can always be distinguished by their unique droop snoot front end design. The twin headlights of which were often seen rapidly approaching in the rear view mirror!

The RS2000 was available in the following factory colours:

• Black
• Signal Green
• Orange
• Venitian Red
• Carnival Red
• Diamond White
• Signal Yellow

• Beige
• Midnight Blue
• Riviera Blue
• Terracota Bronze
• Java Green

• Fishnet headrests for front Recaro seats.
• Custom decals on the rear quarters.
• Black Vinyl roof
• Black boot spoiler
• Push button MW/LW radio
• Rear fog lamp
• Rear seat belt

At the time this RS produced some of the best European rally results ever for Ford. The RS2000 is still used today by many a privateer on the European rally scene.

The RS2000 MKII was discontinued in 1981 when the new Escort MKIII was released. This would be the last rear wheel drive RS to be produced for some time, until the Sierra 3 door Cosworth was released in July 1986. The next RS to be produced on the new front wheel drive shell was the Ford Escort RS1600i.

FORD Escort RS2000 Mark II UK price guide (Sterling)

Condition       Excellent   Good    Average

Sterling          3000      2250     1750

Note: The Escort RS2000 Mark II was produced on R to W-registration plates in the UK.

For further details see Vehicle Registration Plate Guide.

Note: In none European countries the specification for the RS2000 is often different to that described. An example of is that in Australia the RS2000 MKII was also available in a four door shell, with various other non-European options also available!

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