The very first production Ford Escort Mk2 RS1800 ever built is going to auction with Iconic Auctioneers at this year’s NEC Classic Motor Show and is estimated to sell for up to £250,000.
KPR 111P was number 1 of only 109 RS1800s ever built between 1975 and 1977.
The RS1800 was built as the road-going version of Ford’s highly successful rally car. It had the same body shell, suspension, brakes and drivetrain of the Mexico, and was powered by a 1835cc Cosworth BDA engine. Only 109 examples ever left the factory, and surviving examples are some of the most sought-after fast Fords today.
After leaving the factory in 1975, KPR 111P was exported to Malta and was considered lost for decades. It eventually made its way back to the UK, where it underwent a ten-year restoration by Neil Arnold of Auto Restoration in Stockton-on-Tees. Mechanical work was done by Kevin Franks, who was a mechanic for World Rally Champion Richard Burns. A new-old-stock Sport bodyshell was used during the restoration process.
The extremely rare car was restored to completely original condition including the white Ford-stamped rear spoiler, chrome seat handles, period Pirelli Cinturato CN36 tyres, and even the correct Motorcraft battery and radio have been fitted to the car.
Proving how original and special this car is, it has won more than 200 concours trophies, including Concours Car of the Show at the RSOC National Day and RSOC Concours Car of the Year. It’s even been made into a 1:43 scale die-cast model by Corgi.
“To be entrusted with the sale of what is considered the best Mk2 RS1800 in existence is a privilege. This car represents the perfect combination of rarity, provenance and restoration quality. It is exactly the type of motor car that defines Iconic Auctioneers’ reputation as purveyors of automotive excellence.”
Rob Hubbard, Managing Director and Principal Auctioneer of Iconic Auctioneers
The RS1800 will be for sale in The Iconic Sale at the NEC Classic Motor Show on Saturday 8th November 2025.
Bidding is open to registered buyers both in person at the NEC and online via live stream, with full details available at iconicauctioneers.com/nec-classic-motor-show-sale.
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