Escort Cosworth. The name might be old now, but the memories and significance of Ford's fastest Escort live on way into the 21st century. It was an exciting road car, it was a successful motorsport car, and it's now a classic asset as well. See
this one
for sale at £55k for proof of that. Or
this one
this one
This isn't about what Cossies are worth now though, it's about what it achieved as a WRC car. While its debut season in 1993 - yes, a quarter of a century ago - did not result in any titles, Ford did take second in the Manufacturers' Championship and Francois Delecour secured runners-up spot in the drivers' standings. Going without a title during its time as a rally car meant the Escort might not be remembered as a Ford motorsport legend, but that says as much about the exalted standards of the Blue Oval's triumphs as any major failing of the car.
Anyway, this should be a celebration, so here's a video of the Escort Cosworth winning the Tour de Corse in its first season. It's actually a highlights video, featuring both Delecour and teammate Miki Biasion, but it was the Frenchman who triumphed by more than a minute over Didier Auriol in the Celica.
As always he's great value for the victory, getting the #3 Escort bucking, weaving and flaming around the Mediterranean island in spectacular fashion. The livery looks great, the OZ wheels look great, the double headlamps look great... yep, everything about this old WRC car looks pretty great. And we all know proper homologation cars are better. They just are.
So watch and enjoy as the Escort and Delecour romp around Corsica in a small PH anniversary tribute. Should it prompt wistful memories of your own Cosworth experiences, feel free to share them below...