What BHP is Escort RS Turbo?
The Ford Escort RS Turbo produced about 132 bhp from its 1.6-litre turbocharged engine in its original form. While most sources cite 132 bhp as the baseline, some late-spec or market-specific calibrations pushed power into the low-to-mid 140s horsepower range. This article examines the official figure and how it translated into real-world performance.
Power output and performance
The following overview outlines the core horsepower figure for the Escort RS Turbo and how it translated into everyday performance.
- Original Mk3 RS Turbo (introduced 1986): about 132 bhp (DIN) from the 1.6-litre turbo engine; 0-60 mph typically in the high 7-second range; top speed around 128–130 mph.
- Market/late-spec variations: some late-1980s units were calibrated to a higher output in the low-to-mid 140s bhp range, depending on ECU settings and intercooler configuration.
Overall, the Escort RS Turbo offered brisk performance for its era and established Ford’s turbocharged hot-hatch credentials before the subsequent RS models elevated the standard further.
Historical context and design significance
The RS line marked Ford’s commitment to performance-oriented variants, and the Escort RS Turbo was the company’s first major foray into turbocharged performance for a compact hatchback. Built to meet Group A homologation requirements, it pitted Ford against competitive European hot hatches of the late 1980s and helped set the template for later RS models.
Collectability and modern interest
Today, the Escort RS Turbo remains a sought-after classic among enthusiasts. Values vary by condition, provenance, and mileage, but the 1.6-litre turbo remains the defining powerplant that gave the model its character and its enduring appeal.
Summary
The Escort RS Turbo delivered about 132 bhp in its original form, with some markets showing slightly higher figures late in the model’s life. Its turbocharged 1.6-litre engine, combined with a lightweight chassis and aggressive styling, helped establish Ford’s RS performance legacy in the compact-hatch segment.
