Boreham Motorworks has done the seemingly impossible: resurrected the legendary Ford Escort Mk1 RS with a modern twist that keeps its retro-soul intact. Before you purists exclaim in horror… no it is not being electrified.
Dubbed the “Continumod,” this isn’t just a restomod with a spruced-up donor car. It’s a complete rebuild, engineered from the ground up and officially blessed by Ford. Think of it as the Escort Mk1 you’d dream about if your fantasies included a 300-horsepower engine that revs to 10,000 RPM.
Measuring 4.14 meters (163 inches) long, 1.59 meters (63 inches) wide, and weighing in at just 800 kg (1,764 lbs), the Mk1 RS Continumod is all about lightweight performance. Its heart is a choice of two engines: the Twin Cam, now stretched to 1.8 liters with 185 PS (183 hp), or the motorsport-inspired 2.1-liter, 300 PS (296 hp) powerhouse that screams at 10,000 RPM. If the thought of that doesn’t quicken your pulse, the bespoke titanium exhaust note surely will.
The Twin-Cam is paired to a 4-speed “Ford bullet” synchromesh straight-cut transmission while the Boreham Motorworks Bespoke 300 ponies motor is mated to a 5-speed dog leg stick shift for the true, unadulterated drive. No performance numbers were provided but given the power output and just 800 kilograms of weight to haul (plus however heavy you are), I am pretty sure “slow” isn’t in its dictionary.
Purists will appreciate the analog driving experience—no power steering, ABS, or traction control. This is a car that puts you in charge. The MacPherson struts up front and a featherweight aluminum and titanium rear axle ensure razor-sharp handling, while vented disc brakes with four-piston calipers up front and two-piston units at the rear deliver confident stopping power.
Inside, Boreham blends vintage vibes with modern comfort. The minimalist dashboard harks back to the original, but now includes air conditioning and heated screens for added practicality. Alcantara and leather adorn the interior, while lightweight carbon fiber components keep the scales happy. Need space for your racing helmet? The optional carbon rear compartment has you covered, complete with a roll cage for extra safety.
On the outside, this new Mk1 RS stays true to its roots with a billet-machined aluminum grille, compact 15-inch wheels, and aerodynamic updates that don’t mess with the original’s clean lines. Even the taillights get a subtle update, maintaining the Escort’s iconic look while enhancing visibility.
Limited to just 150 units and priced from £295,000 (around US$374K), the Mk1 RS Continumod isn’t just a car; it’s a statement piece for the ultimate driving enthusiast. Deliveries begin in Q3 2025. If you’re hoping to snag one, you better act fast—this kind of legend doesn’t sit idle for long. Take a few more look after the video below.
Images: Boreham Motorworks.
