The RS2000 was based on the two door, front wheel drive MK5 Escort XR3i.

The RS2000 engine was a 2 litre in-line four cylinder, four stroke, 16-Valve unit with twin overhead camshafts, named the I4. The I4 used a cast iron block with a lightweight aluminium cylinder head, the tappets were hydraulic as per the older CVH engine. The I4 was one of the last variants of engine to be used in a RS and had a number of weight saving features. The twin overhead camshafts were driven via chain from the crankshaft. Producing 145 bhp at 6000 rpm, with the car weighing in at 1165 kg. The engine was mounted transversely in the Mark V shell, compared to the MK5 Escort RS Cosworth which was mounted longitudinally.

The engine ran on Unleaded Fuel and used a catalytic converter on the exhaust system.

The engine was normally aspirated and although produced good power failed to win the hearts of RS supporters.

A five speed manual gearbox was fitted.

Steering was power-assisted and used a rack and pinion.

Braking was via front mounted vented disks and rear disks.

The wheels were a distinctive spoke alloy design, fitted with Michelin tyres.

Driving lamps mounted within the front spoiler came as standard and the car featured colour coded front and rear spoiler, side skirts, and mirrors.

FORD Escort MK5 (Mark V) RS2000 2WD UK price guide (Sterling)

Condition       Excellent   Good    Average

Sterling          8000      6750     5500

Note: The Escort MK5 (Mark V) RS2000 2WD was produced on J to M-registration plates in the UK.

For further details see Vehicle Registration Plate Guide.

The car failed to make the sales Ford had predicted and was replaced by the MK5 Escort RS2000 4WD in 1995.

The MK5 RS2000 was based on the XR3i and standard Escort Mark V of the time. Further details of which can be found in the Ford Escort 1991 Workshop manual.

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