One to Buy: 1 of 2 in Black 1986 Ford RS200
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Like most manufacturers that created Group B homologation specials, Ford found it very difficult to sell the RS200 when new. Therefore, to broaden its appeal, between 1987 and 1989 (after production had ended) Ford made a series of improvements aimed at increasing practicality, reliability, comfort and performance.
In addition, once Ford subsidiary Tickford took over preparation of the remaining unsold cars at the beginning of 1988, a handful of RS200s began to emerge in alternative colours to plain white with a believed five examples refinished in red plus two apiece in blue and black.
Currently residing at the Autosport Designs showroom in Long Island, New York, is one of those two black RS200s which comes to market with just 2600km showing on the odometer.
Chassis 159 was originally ordered by oil magnate Dennis O'Connor in Texas through renowned racing driver Innes Ireland. In addition to its stunning black paintwork, chassis 159 was configured in left-hand drive with the optional 350bhp upgrade kit and several interior enhancements.
Unfortunately, Mr O'Conner passed away prior to being able to take delivery chassis 159 was instead acquired by Terry Hoyle during 1990. A few years later the black RS200 finally made its way across the Atlantic, only to return to the UK in 1997. The car subsequently went on display in the David Sutton Motorsports Museum at which point an indicated 600 miles had been covered.
2016 saw chassis 159 head back to the United States. In the car of its most recent custodian, the car has been used sparingly but nevertheless benefitted from regular maintenance to include a cylinder head service, timing belt replacement and new oil lines along with anything else required to keep it in superb, ready to use condition.
