Inside, the Twin Cam and RS1600 were broadly similar to the Escort 1300 GT with a couple of special items thrown in.

Behind the imitation leather-rimmed three-spoke sports steering wheel was an oval six-gauge oval binnacle with a natural alloy fascia. The two large dials (an 8000rpm rev counter and 140mph speedometer) were flanked to the right-hand side by a cluster of four smaller read outs (fuel, oil pressure, water temperature and battery charge). The original natural aluminium dash fascia and deep-dish ‘Springalex’ steering wheel were later switched a satin black and flat RS-branded item respectively. The seat pattern was also changed in later years (as depicted above).

Upholstery was a mix of vinyl PVC and carpet. Fluted seat centres matched the door trim panels.

The windscreen washer control was a foot-operated button mounted on the floor to enable the driver to keep both hands on the steering wheel.

Standard equipment included wind-down windows, a heater / de-mister, two-speed wipers with non-lift blades, sun visors and an ashtray.

Options

Customers could upgrade their RS1600 with a number of optional extras to include a heater, a Webasto sunroof, faux wood cockpit trim, a vinyl roof, a cigar lighter and map reading light.

Performance-inspired options included Rallye Sport alloy wheels, Bilstein dampers, a limited slip differential, a roll cage, a fire proof rear bulkhead, a sump guard, a supplementary oil cooler, a battery isolator switch, flared wheelarches, wider magnesium alloy Minilite wheels and spot lights.

Weight / Performance

In standard trim, the RS1600 weighed 785kg which was the same figure that Ford had quoted for the Rwin Cam.

Top speed went from 113mph to 115mph for the Dellorto-equipped version and to 120mph if fitted with Webers.

The 0-62mph time dropped from 8.7 seconds to 8.5 and 8.4 seconds respectively.

Production Changes