The new Mk1 Ford Escort RS made its world debut at the London Concours, marking the first appearance of a fresh model in the line for half a century.
Continuation rather than a restomod
Boreham Motorworks presented the vehicle at the Honourable Artillery Company grounds in London, stating that it is a “continuation” of the original Escort RS rather than a simple restomod. The company notes the chassis carries continuation numbers and that the project has official licensing from Ford Motor Company.
Unlike many classic‑car rebuilds that rely on donor frames, this version uses a brand‑new steel body for each unit. A custom subframe extends the wheelbase by 30 mm, while the overall two‑door saloon proportions stay true to the 1960s shape. Carbon‑fiber panels cover the bonnet and boot, and the lighting units are upgraded to LED versions of the original components. Exterior trim pieces are machined from aluminium and stainless steel.
Related: ShipStation names Mark Honeyben Europe MD
Under the skin
The chassis has been re‑engineered around lightweight 15‑inch alloy wheels, with new coil springs, dampers and beefed‑up brakes. A traditional cable‑operated handbrake remains, a nod to the car’s heritage.
Interior design and optional features
Designer Wayne Burgess oversaw an interior that blends classic cues with lightweight materials. Carbon fibre is used for the dashboard, door cards and rear panels, and optional storage for a racing helmet is offered. Analogue dials recall the original Escort, while other elements can be personalized, including seats, steering wheel and even an integrated roll cage.
Two rally‑style chronographs, developed with Breitling, sit on the centre console, highlighting the model’s rally heritage. The cabin’s overall philosophy is described as “driver engagement and lightweight functionality.”
Market positioning and production limits
Boreham plans to build only 150 examples, available in right‑ or left‑hand drive. Pricing starts at £295,000 in the United Kingdom and $400,000 for U.S. customers. Each car will carry a two‑year, 20,000‑mile warranty, signaling the company’s intent for the cars to be driven rather than displayed.
Related: ‘Project Hail Mary’ is the box office proof point Amazon MGM has been waiting for
Industry observers note that the price places the Escort RS firmly in the niche super‑car segment, competing with limited‑run models from manufacturers such as Lotus and Alpine. One analyst remarked that the limited production run may appeal to collectors but could also limit broader market impact.
External perspective
Automotive historian enthusiasts have long debated the feasibility of modernizing a classic without compromising its identity. The involvement of Ford’s licensing team suggests official endorsement, yet some purists argue that true continuity requires the original chassis, not a newly fabricated one.
Despite differing views, the debut demonstrates how far engineering can advance while still referencing a design from 1968.
Related: Retail bosses urge Starmer on youth unemployment crisis
In a statement at the event, Iain Muir, CEO of Boreham Motorworks, said the company’s goal was to deliver “lightweight engineering, immediate response, usable naturally aspirated performance and genuine driver connection.”
He added that the public reveal proved the development process had moved beyond the initial concept stage.
The appearance at a prestigious concours signals a serious attempt to bridge heritage and performance.
