Andrew’s 1987 Ford RS Cosworth: A Cherished Classic Car Looking For A New Owner

Few cars capture the spirit of 1980s motorsport like the Ford RS Cosworth. From its distinctive boxy design to its rallying dominance, it’s an iconic vehicle that remains coveted by car enthusiasts and collectors alike. For Andrew, the RS Cosworth has been a constant companion for nearly 37 years, and now, as he prepares to part with it, his cherished 1987 model is headed to Anglia Car Auctions in November 2024. With a rich history, a bit of character-building fire damage, and an impressive original interior, this Cosworth is ready to find a new owner who will continue its legacy.

A Car Born from Motorsport Glory

Registered in January 1987 and bought by Andrew in December of that same year, this Ford RS Cosworth has been more than just a mode of transportation—it’s been his pride and joy. The car caught Andrew’s attention in a way few vehicles could: “I saw it on the television, and they were winning everything," Andrew says, reflecting on the Cosworth’s motorsport dominance at the time. "I happened to go into CC Harrisons in Peterborough, and they had a black one for sale. I was looking around it and I thought, ‘That’s the car I want.’”

For Andrew, it wasn’t just about performance, though the RS Cosworth certainly delivered in that department. Capable of 150 mph, it offered incredible speed and handling that rivalled far more expensive sports cars of the time. “The Porsche in the papers was £32,000, and these were £15,995,” Andrew recalls. "I thought, 'I've got to have one of them.'"

It was a no-brainer for Andrew, who took the car home and never looked back.

A Life Filled with Fun and Adventure

Since 1987, Andrew and his Ford RS Cosworth have shared countless memories. it’s been a source of joy for him. "I have had loads of fun with this car over the years," Andrew says, his voice full of nostalgia. From the car’s impressive speed to its thrilling handling, the RS Cosworth has never failed to put a smile on his face.

However, after more than three decades of ownership, Andrew made the difficult decision to sell the car about a year ago. Yet, the Cosworth wasn’t quite ready to part ways. As Andrew was preparing the car for sale, flames suddenly appeared from under the bonnet, an unexpected moment that seemed like the car was protesting its upcoming departure. Fortunately, the fire was quickly extinguished before it could cause any major damage, but it did leave some fire damage to the bonnet. The rest of the car, however, remains in impressive condition.

The Interior: A Rare Gem

One of the most remarkable aspects of Andrew’s Ford RS Cosworth is its original interior. In these models, it’s common to see wear and tear after so many years, especially on the dashboard, which often splits over time due to sun exposure and heat. However, Andrew’s Cosworth has defied the odds—the dashboard remains in excellent condition, a rarity that sets this car apart from many other surviving examples.

The seats, too, are in lovely condition, retaining their original form and comfort. It’s clear that Andrew has taken great care of this car throughout his ownership, ensuring that it remained in good condition inside and out. For any buyer, the pristine interior is a huge plus, as finding an RS Cosworth with an intact and well-preserved cabin is becoming increasingly rare.

A Project with Potential

Despite the fire damage to the bonnet, Andrew’s Ford RS Cosworth is a fantastic project car with enormous potential. The fire may have left its mark, but the car’s core appeal remains untouched. For collectors or enthusiasts looking for a restoration project, this Cosworth offers a solid foundation—particularly with its well-maintained interior and racing heritage.

Project cars like this are highly sought after in the classic car market, and Andrew’s Cosworth is no exception. It’s a rare opportunity to own a piece of Ford’s motorsport history, and for the right buyer, restoring this car will be a labour of love. Once restored, it will undoubtedly turn heads on the road or at car shows, and it has the potential to significantly increase in value.

The Auction: A Unique Opportunity

Andrew’s Ford RS Cosworth will be offered at Anglia Car Auctions’ November 2024 sale, taking place on the 2nd and 3rd of November. The auctioneer has guided the car with an estimate of around £20,000, though the exact figure will depend on the bidding on the day. With its fire-damaged bonnet and project status, it’s a realistic figure, but the car’s rarity and history may drive the price higher.

For potential buyers, this auction represents a rare chance to acquire a Ford RS Cosworth from a longtime, dedicated owner. Andrew’s car comes with decades of history and care, and while it needs some work, it offers a fantastic opportunity for someone looking to restore a genuine icon of 1980s motorsport.

The Legacy Lives On

The Ford RS Cosworth is more than just a car—it’s a legend. From its rallying dominance to its role as a performance icon, it has left an indelible mark on the automotive world. For Andrew, it’s been a source of fun, pride, and joy for 37 years, and now it’s time for someone else to take the wheel.

As the car rolls across the auction block in November, there’s no doubt it will attract attention from collectors and enthusiasts alike. Whether it’s restored to its original glory or enjoyed as a project, this 1987 Ford RS Cosworth will continue to be a symbol of high-performance driving and motorsport heritage.

The only question left is: who will be the next to experience the thrill of owning this legendary machine?

Ford RS Cosworth