1982-1983 FORD Escort RS1600i specifications

In an even more serious vein than the XR3i was the RS1600i, built for homologation purposes to allow this fast Ford to go rallying in Group A competition. Although closely related to the XR3i – the fuel-injected engine was the same, for example – there were sufficient tweaks to raise power to 115bhp plus provide potential for future tuning. The 1980s was the era of flashy graphics, and the RS1600i was not one to disappoint, with extensive striping down its flanks and on its bonnet, plus prominent nose and boot spoilers and seven-spoke alloy wheels.

Production: 8659
Price at launch: £6,834
Price (excellent) £5,500
Price (good): £3,250
Price (average): £1,800
Price (project): £1,000

Performance
0-60mph: 8.7secs
Top speed: 116.0mph
Power: 115.0bhp
Torque: 109.0lb/ft
MPG: 30.0mpg

Engine
Configuration:in-line four
Aspiration: Normal
Fuel: Petrol
Fuel delivery:electronic fuel injection

Chassis
Suspension Front:Independent, MacPherson struts, coil springs, anti-roll bar
Suspension Rear:Independent, variable rate coil springs, anti-roll bar
Steering:rack and pinion
Bodyframe:metal monocoque
Transmission:Five-speed manual

Dimensions
Length: 4261mm
Wheelbase: 2559mm
Width: 1649mm
Height: 1288mm
Weight: 1105kgs