1971 Ford Escort Mk1 RS1600 — AVO Built Car
Registration: LVX 991J (period Works-style registration)
Chassis No: BFATLK19446
Engine: Cosworth BDA 1.6L
Odometer: N/A
Key Facts..
Genuine Ford Escort Mk1 RS1600 built at AVO
Rare “Show Unit” factory build designation
Used for Press Duties
Retains original bodyshell and matching numbers identity
Believed to have been used for Ford press or development purposes
Features original factory-fitted aluminium panels
Restored with a unique “preservation-led” approach
Mechanically rebuilt by ASM Classics
Provenance..
The Escort RS1600 represents one of the most important models in Ford’s competition history.
Developed at Ford’s Advanced Vehicle Operations (AVO) facility in Aveley, the RS1600 was designed as a true homologation special — combining lightweight construction with the advanced Cosworth BDA engine, derived from Ford’s Formula 2 programme.
During the late 1960s and early 1970s, the Escort became synonymous with success in international rallying, with Works cars achieving major victories including the 1970 London to Mexico World Cup Rally, famously won by Hannu Mikkola.
Chassis BFATLK19446 is a particularly significant example, carrying a “Show Unit” designation on its build plate, confirming it was produced for factory use rather than standard retail sale.
Further supporting its importance, the car wears a period-correct LVX registration prefix, commonly associated with Ford Works and press vehicles of the era.
Specification..
Factory RS1600 specification including:
1.6-litre Cosworth BDA engine
Twin-cam, belt-driven valvetrain derived from Formula 2
Rear-wheel drive configuration
Strengthened AVO bodyshell
Performance suspension setup
Lightweight construction
Notable original features include:
Factory aluminium bonnet, boot and doors
Original six-dial instrument cluster
Original interior trim and seats
Original AVO identification tags
Original magnesium wheels (x-rayed and confirmed structurally sound)
History..
The car is understood to have been built in 1971 as part of Ford’s internal programme, likely for press or development use, as indicated by its “Show Unit” classification.
Unlike many RS1600s, which were quickly absorbed into competition use and often heavily modified or lost, this example survived in a remarkably original state.
It was later acquired by William Arnold, RS1600 AVO Owners Club Registrar, who recognised its significance and preserved it accordingly.
The car then passed to the current vendor, an experienced collector and restorer of classic Fords, who sought to approach its restoration in a different and more sympathetic manner.
Originality..
Chassis BFATLK19446 retains an exceptional level of original character and features.
Key elements include:
Original bodyshell
Original AVO tags and VIN plate
Factory aluminium panels
Original interior components
Original instrumentation
Period-correct detailing throughout
The car has been carefully preserved rather than restored beyond recognition, maintaining a strong sense of authenticity.
Current Condition..
Presented in fully rebuilt and mechanically sorted condition.
Key highlights include:
Complete mechanical refurbishment
Expert preparation by ASM Classics
Original interior retained
Structurally sound and ready for use
Summary..
A highly significant Escort RS1600 AVO “Show Unit”, retaining its original identity and benefiting from a sympathetic, preservation-led restoration.
With its connection to Ford’s press or development programme, original aluminium panels and unique presentation, chassis BFATLK19446 represents an unusually authentic and characterful example of one of Ford’s most important performance cars.
Equally suited to display or driving, it stands apart from conventionally restored examples, offering a rare and engaging interpretation of the RS1600.
