by Boreham Motorworks unveils a brand new Ford Escort RS: not a restomod, but a modern continuation of a legend
Thanks to its successes on roads, tracks, and rally stages, the Mk1 Escort became a true performance hero in the 1960s and 1970s. Now it is ready to repeat that success in the 2020s thanks to a radical engineering reimagining by Boreham Motorworks.
First shown as renders in 2024, the Escort RS “continumod” is a far more ambitious project than a typical restomod. In fact, Boreham prefers that it not be called a restomod at all. The reason is that the Escort RS is not restored from an original donor car. It is an entirely new machine, created with the blessing of Ford.
Each example begins its life as an entirely new vehicle with an officially approved Ford chassis. Think of it as a modern continuation of the Mk1 Escort’s performance legacy, built using today’s engineering knowledge, but without the digital filters that numb so many modern sports cars.
No Turbos: Noise, Response, and Revs Above All
Beyond the sensual flared arches and expertly integrated LED headlights, the main highlight is undoubtedly the optional Ten-K engine. This naturally aspirated 2.1-liter four-cylinder motor produces 326 hp (330 PS) and revs to 10,000 rpm. Weighing just 85 kg, it features components inspired by racing technology: individual throttle bodies, forged internals, gear-driven camshafts (which will delight fans of the original), and a lightweight flywheel designed to sharpen every driver input.
Power is sent to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox of the dog-leg type. With a target curb weight of just 895 kg, the Escort boasts a power-to-weight ratio that would embarrass many modern performance cars. Boreham has yet to release acceleration figures, but the power and weight numbers hint that this little Ford won’t be sluggish.
Buyers seeking something closer to the original recipe can opt for an updated Twin Cam engine. Increased to 1.8 liters and fitted with fuel injection, it produces 182 hp (185 PS) through a four-speed manual gearbox with straight-cut teeth.
The chassis features a special front subframe, a lightweight floating rear axle made of aluminum and titanium, revised suspension geometry, and a rear multi-link system. The unsprung mass of the rear axle is reportedly significantly reduced compared to period racing cars.
Analog, but Not Spartan
Equally important, Boreham has resisted the temptation to “sterilize” the driving experience. There is no power steering, ABS, or traction control system. Instead, drivers get a limited-slip differential and an old-school approach to engagement, though the sympathetically updated cabin looks luxurious enough for this Mk1 to be used daily or for long trips, not just for track days.
Special instruments, carbon fiber and leather trim, a three-spoke steering wheel—everything looks like it has had as many hours of work put into it as the engine, chassis, and body. In the rear, where rear seats would normally be, there are two special compartments for helmets.
Production will be limited to 150 cars worldwide, and acquiring one will require supercar-level finances. With a price starting at £295,000 ($393,000) plus taxes, which in the UK amounts to around £354,000 ($474,000), this is hardly an affordable Escort in the spirit of the original RS. But if we had that kind of money, we wouldn’t hesitate.
Boreham Motorworks’ approach takes the “continuation car” concept to a new level, offering not just a restoration but the rebirth of a legend using modern technology. The rejection of turbocharging and electronic aids in favor of a pure, analog driving experience makes this car a unique proposition in a market dominated by high-tech but often emotionally muted machines. It is a bold statement that true driving pleasure does not require screens and complex systems, but is born from perfect mechanics and a direct connection between driver, road, and car.
