Boreham Motorworks Ford Escort Mk1 RS: 10K-RPM Monster

Wouter Smit · 2026-06-09

If you thought the golden age of analog driving was dead, think again. Boreham Motorworks just dropped their reimagined Ford Escort Mk1 RS, and it's a beast that revs all the way to 10,000 RPM. First teased back in late 2024, this modern classic is finally here, and it packs even more punch than anyone expected. ### What Makes This Escort Special? This isn't just a restoration; it's a full reimagining. Boreham took the iconic Mk1 RS body and stuffed it with modern engineering, all while keeping that raw, visceral feel that made the original a legend. Under the hood, you'll find a naturally aspirated engine that screams to that 10K redline—a sound that's pure music to any enthusiast's ears. - **Engine:** Naturally aspirated, high-revving unit with a 10,000 RPM redline - **Power output:** Expected to exceed 300 horsepower, up from initial estimates - **Weight:** Kept remarkably low, around 2,200 pounds, for razor-sharp handling - **Transmission:** A precise manual gearbox that puts you in full control ### Performance That Surprises When Boreham first showed the car, they hinted at impressive numbers. But now that it's in production, the specs have blown past those early promises. The 0-60 mph sprint happens in under 4.5 seconds, and the top speed pushes past 160 mph. That's serious performance for a car that weighs less than a modern Miata. ### Design: Old School Meets New Tech From the outside, it looks like a classic Escort RS—boxy fenders, iconic grille, and that purposeful stance. But look closer, and you'll see modern touches everywhere. LED headlights are tucked into the vintage housings, the suspension uses advanced coilovers, and the brakes are massive discs with multi-piston calipers. Inside, you get a simple cabin with just the essentials: supportive bucket seats, a three-spoke steering wheel, and a cluster of analog gauges that includes that glorious 10K tachometer. > "This car is a love letter to driving purists. We wanted to capture the spirit of the original but make it reliable and thrilling for today's roads." — Boreham Motorworks spokesperson ### Who Is This Car For? This isn't a daily driver for most people. It's a weekend toy, a track-day weapon, or a collector's piece. Boreham is building them in limited numbers, and each one is hand-assembled to order. If you're someone who values analog driving over digital screens, who wants to feel every shift and hear every rev, this is your machine. ### Pricing and Availability Prices start at around $350,000, which puts it in rare air alongside other restomod icons. But for that money, you're getting a bespoke car built to your specs, with a warranty and support from Boreham. Deliveries are expected to begin later this year, and if the early buzz is any indication, they'll sell out fast. ### Final Thoughts The Boreham Motorworks Ford Escort Mk1 RS is proof that the spirit of classic driving isn't dead. It's a car that demands your attention, rewards your skill, and makes every journey feel like an event. Whether you're a collector or just a fan of automotive art, this one is special. And that 10,000 RPM redline? It's not just a number—it's an invitation to let loose and enjoy the ride.