Ford Escort Hatchback RS 1600 Turbo 3d (1986/C) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Good cars still demanding high price tags.
Costs
Standard mpg low to mid 30s, modified and heavy right foot low 20s. Tyres about £40 each, fronts don't last long, only elevated costs are gearbox due to internal viscous LSD and turbocharger itself.
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On the road
Driving
The standard stuff can be a bit mush! To get the most out of the RST you have to upgrade the suspension and the brake pads. Once this is done the driving becomes sure footed and predictable.
Performance
Standard performance excellant, but supercar killing power is ridiculously easy to release.
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Living with it
Reliability
Just a few unique faults. Valve stem oil seals frequently harden and cause harmless but irritating blue smoke, a large and expensive (£30) ignition relay can often fail, stopping the car instantly and if too much bhp is liberated the gearbox/LSD can fail.
Image
The series one (1985 upto mid 1986) is now truly an icon.
Comfort
Standard Recaro seats very comfortable and with the 'Custom' (electrics, cl and man sunroof) pack you'll have all you want.
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Security and Service
Security
The only big downfall in the early mid-eighties Escort. Woefully easy to break into and drive away. Serious electronic and physical deterrants must be utilised.
Service
Mechanical service was very good, but the bodyshop and bodywork customer service and workmanship were extreamly dissapointing.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Valve stem oil seals.
Other
Ignition relay.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes