1989 Ford Escort RS Turbo 1.6 turbo
Summary:
They're getting rarer..
Faults:
When we bought it, the engine needed tuning and service.
The drivers seat (Recaro) couldn't hold my 72 kilo's.
ABS sensor needed to be adjusted.
General Comments:
After changing the oil + filter, the petrol-filter, the air-filter and the spark-plugs (We use Motorcraft parts exclusively) the Escort ran much, much better.
Since the engine has been tuned to the standard spec's, the car is a dream to drive.
Ours is a 100% original mercury-grey RS. No monster stereo set, just a 1989 Ford radio/cassette player. No channeltunnel-sized exhaust pipe, but a decent standard RS-T one. Engine is tuned to factory specs. No special airfilters or other non-standard stuff whatsoever. The previous owner (s) took care of it and that pays off. The car is a daily driver. Oil + filter are being changed every 10.00 km (6250 miles).When on the road we change gears at 2000 rpm. By doing this we hope to extend the lifetime of the 132 hp CVH engine. It still does 200+ km/h (125+ mph). Much to the annoyance of people in big Merc's and BMW's.
Like most (if not ALL) of the Mk4 Escorts the RS needs to have some welding done. As soon as that's done we need to check out the sun-roof. When tilted, it's OK, but when fully opened you find yourself in a rain of little chips of rust. Don't know where that comes from (any suggestions?)
Although it's an RS-Turbo, it's still a Ford Escort, which means that maintenance and parts are very cheap.
Being born in 1973, owning the Mk2 RS-T is a boys dream come true. I've always liked them ever since they were introduced in '86 To all fellow RS-Turbo owners, or those of you who want to purchase one: good luck with you RS and keep her on the road!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 21st September, 2007
22nd Sep 2007, 15:49
I (the writer of this survey) forgot to mention a few important things. Things that make a survey a survey. Like I said the car is fantastic to drive. The interior is surprisingly silent for a car that age. Apart from some squeeks and rattles it's possible to have a normal conversation up to, let's say, 160 km/h (100 mp/h).
When driving on top speed the car feels like it's glued onto the road. Ramps are quite easy to take, although the car is a bit lower that the other Mk 4 Escorts.
The Recaros are great for fast cornering and long distances. Up to 2 adults can be seated comfortably on the back seat. Putting three adults up there is a violation of human rights.
The car has a heated windshield in combination with power rearview mirrors, which seem to live a life of their own. The only work half of the time.
Like all Escorts you can fold down the backseat which makes the car suitable for holidays and a visit to Ikea.
Unlike the MK1 RS-Turbo, the MK2 can be driven like a "normal" car. The turbo delivers it's pressure very smoothly. You can dive it like a regular 1.6i, but if needed it provides you with all the power you want.