1993 Ford Escort RS Cosworth — Exceptional One Owner Example
Registration: L930 WCC
Chassis No: WF0BXXGKABNT98450
Engine: Cosworth YBT Turbocharged
Odometer: 12,354 miles from new
Key Facts..
Genuine Ford Escort RS Cosworth “Big Turbo” model
Just one registered keeper from new
Showing only 12,354 miles
Finished in Radiant Red with Polaris Grey Hexagon cloth interior
Supplied new by Gordon Ford, Colwyn Bay
Retained in long-term ownership from new
Preserved in highly original “time warp” condition
Provenance..
The Escort RS Cosworth was developed during a pivotal period in Ford’s motorsport history, as the company transitioned from the dominance of the Sierra Cosworth to a new generation of rally cars.
Under the direction of Stuart Turner and Walter Hayes, Ford sought to create a smaller, lighter car capable of competing with the rapidly advancing Japanese manufacturers in international rallying.
Despite initial resistance from Ford’s senior management, the programme was approved following a compelling technical and marketing case. The concept combined the proven four-wheel drive system of the Sierra Cosworth with a new Escort bodyshell — a combination famously described internally as a “pizza” approach: Sierra underneath, Escort on top.
A prototype rally car demonstrated immediate success, and the resulting Escort RS Cosworth became one of the defining performance Fords of the 1990s, both on the road and in international rally competition.
Specification..
Factory Escort RS Cosworth “Big Turbo” specification including:
Cosworth YBT turbocharged engine
Garrett T35 turbocharger
Permanent four-wheel drive system derived from the Sierra Cosworth
Five-speed manual transmission
Recaro interior trim in Polaris Grey Hexagon cloth
Finished in Radiant Red
Original Ford radio unit (displaying correct registration on start-up)
Factory-fitted Vecta immobiliser system
Original supplying dealer number plates retained
History..
First registered in November 1993, L930 WCC was supplied new by Gordon Ford of Colwyn Bay to its sole owner, the late John Phillips.
A lifelong Ford enthusiast and motorsport devotee, Phillips acquired the car as an early retirement purchase and maintained it with great care throughout his ownership.
The Escort was kept garaged from new, never used in adverse weather conditions, and only driven sparingly. It remained his pride and joy until his passing in 2009, after which the car remained stored in the same family garage for many years.
Only recently has the car emerged from storage, having been carefully prepared for road use again.
Maintenance & Documentation..
The car is accompanied by a comprehensive history file including:
Original Ford grey leather document wallet
Full set of owner’s manuals and service books
Dealer handover documentation
Documentation relating to the Ford “Options” purchase scheme
Original tax disc holder and subsequent tax discs
MOT certificates and supporting invoices
This documentation supports both the car’s mileage and its continuous single ownership history.
Originality..
L930 WCC remains an exceptionally well-preserved example, retaining numerous original features including:
Original factory paintwork and trim
Original radio unit
Original immobiliser system
Original supplying dealer number plates
Original interior materials in outstanding condition
The overall presentation reflects careful long-term ownership and limited use, resulting in a car that has remained remarkably close to its factory condition.
Current Condition..
Presented today in highly original condition following long-term storage.
Recent preparation includes:
Cambelt and tensioner replacement
Oil and filter service
Regularly started and run up to temperature
The car remains a strong, well-preserved example with exceptional originality throughout.
Summary..
A rare opportunity to see a one-owner Escort RS Cosworth with exceptionally low mileage and outstanding originality.
With just 12,354 miles from new, continuous ownership from 1993 and long-term careful storage, L930 WCC represents a highly authentic example of one of Ford’s most iconic performance cars.
Preserved rather than restored, it stands today as a true reference example of the Escort RS Cosworth in outstanding original showroom condition