Iconic Auctioneers is set to offer what is widely acknowledged as the finest Ford Escort Mk2 RS1800 in existence in its Iconic Sale at the NEC Classic Motor Show on 8-9 November 2025. Confirmed as the very first production example of just 109 built, this multiple-concours-winning car has an estimate of £200,000-£250,000.
Produced between March 1975 and September 1977, the Mk2 Escort RS1800 was created as a road-going counterpart to Ford’s hugely successful rally car of the era. Sharing its body shell, suspension, brakes and drivetrain with the Mexico, the RS1800 was powered by a 1,835cc Cosworth BDA engine. Intended primarily for motorsport, just 109 cars were produced, making this model one of the most coveted fast Fords ever built.
The car offered by Iconic Auctioneers, chassis number BBATRL08628, has been confirmed by the late Dave Robinson, RS1800 Registrar, as the earliest production example. First registered in 1975, it was thought lost for decades after being exported to Malta before resurfacing and returning to the UK. It now proudly wears its original registration, KPR 111P.
Early-production features make this Escort stand apart, including a white Ford-stamped rear spoiler, single-hole rear bumper light, front wing side repeaters and chrome reclining seat handles. Every detail has been restored to as-new condition, right down to period-correct Pirelli Cinturato CN36 tyres, a Motorcraft battery and the correct working radio.
The restoration, carried out over more than a decade by Neil Arnold of Auto Restoration in Stockton-on-Tees, included mechanical work by ex-World Rally Champion Richard Burns’ mechanic, Kevin Franks. The rebuild used a genuine new-old-stock Sport bodyshell, ensuring both authenticity and longevity. Such is the quality of the work that the car has been celebrated with more than 200 concours awards, including Concours Car of the Show at the RSOC National Day in 2022, consecutive Gold Cups and the RSOC Concours Car of the Year. This Escort’s reputation for perfection has even been recognised by Corgi, which has immortalised KPR 111P in a limited-edition 1:43 die-cast model.
Rob Hubbard, Managing Director and Principal Auctioneer of Iconic Auctioneers, said:
“To be entrusted with the sale of what is considered the best Mk2 RS1800 in existence is a privilege. This car represents the perfect combination of rarity, provenance and restoration quality. It is exactly the type of motor car that defines Iconic Auctioneers’ reputation as purveyors of automotive excellence.”
The Ford Escort RS1800 will be offered at The Iconic Sale, part of the NEC Classic Motor Show, on Saturday 8. Alongside this lot, the auction will feature a wide selection of collectors’ cars, while additional classic car, motorcycle and automobilia auctions will also take place throughout the weekend.
Bidders are invited to register in advance to take part in person at the NEC, online via live stream, or by telephone.
Full details on this and other consignments can be found at https://www.iconicauctioneers.com/nec-classic-motor-show-sale.
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