1970-1973 FORD Escort RS1600 BDA specifications

Ford set up their Advanced Vehicles Operation in Essex in 1970 and first-born was the RS1600. This was an extension of the Escort Twin Cam, fitted with the new 16-valve Cosworth BDA twin-cam. The engine was developed from a Formula 2 racing engine and even in detuned state it still made the Escort a furious machine, with the potential to hit almost 120mph. Most buyers ended up tuning them back up again and using them for competition. The Twin Cam demanded a lot of care and attention beyond the means of most ‘ordinary’ owners.