The 1993 Ford Escort RS Cosworth is one of those rare cars that feels like it escaped from the rally stages to the open road. Built to homologate Ford’s rally program, this turbocharged all-wheel-drive machine represents a high point in performance engineering of the early 1990s. This example, recently imported to the US, combines factory pedigree with exciting modifications that enhance both performance and presence.
The rally-bred heritage of the 1993 Ford Escort RS Cosworth
Designed for Group A rally competition, the Escort RS Cosworth quickly became a legend among enthusiasts. Ford produced around 7,000 examples during its seven-year run, each built with the intent of combining road usability with motorsport DNA. With its distinctive raised rear wing, flared arches, and functional aero elements, the RS Cosworth has always carried an aggressive look that matched its performance.
Turbocharged performance with Holset power
Under the hood lies a 2.0-liter Cosworth-designed DOHC inline-four, but this particular car features a Holset turbocharger upgrade. Paired with a cold air intake, strut tower brace, and upgraded cooling components, the engine delivers sharp throttle response and impressive power. The output flows through a five-speed manual transaxle and reaches the ground via a full-time all-wheel-drive system. Supporting upgrades such as Brembo brakes and GAZ coilovers ensure the handling matches the power.
Unique exterior and wheel setup
Finished in white, this Escort RS Cosworth shows both rally roots and modern refinements. It features a vented hood, decklid spoiler, and its iconic raised rear wing. The inner headlight and fog lamps were removed for better cooling, while the bumpers have been refinished to freshen the appearance. The car rides on 19-inch white Cromodora center-lock wheels, wrapped in Falken tires, giving it a striking stance that complements its rally heritage.
Interior focused on driving
Inside, the cabin reflects both motorsport purpose and driver involvement. A pair of OMP fixed-back fiberglass seats in black with orange accents dominate the interior. Alcantara covers the dash and panels, while orange stitching ties the design together. Added gauges, a GReddy boost controller, and a Sparco steering wheel with a centering stripe complete the rally-inspired setup. While comfort features like air conditioning are non-functional, this interior is built with performance in mind.
A true homologation icon
With just 29k kilometers (~18k miles), this 1993 Ford Escort RS Cosworth stands as a collectible and highly capable piece of Ford’s motorsport history. Its combination of rare homologation origins, turbocharged power, and driver-focused modifications makes it both desirable for collectors and thrilling for drivers. Few cars embody rally spirit on the road quite like the Escort RS Cosworth.
Summary
The 1993 Ford Escort RS Cosworth remains one of the most exciting and iconic rally-bred performance cars of its era. With its Holset turbo upgrade, all-wheel-drive grip, and unmistakable styling, this example offers both collectibility and a raw driving experience that continues to captivate enthusiasts.
Disclaimer: Details are specific to this 1993 Ford Escort RS Cosworth and may vary depending on condition and records.
