06/01/2010

Focus Becomes A 'Classic'

The new Ford Focus RS, launched to critical acclaim during 2009, is the latest addition to the Essex-based Ford Heritage Collection.

The Focus RS will join such icons as the original 1970 London to Mexico winning Escort, one of only seven GT70 cars ever built and Sir Jackie Stewart's 1970 March 701, in which he won the Spanish grand prix.

The collection also includes many fine examples of standard road cars.

Several of the vehicles were on display in May as the Ford Dagenham estate celebrated its 80th anniversary, and guests were able to drive a Model AA truck similar to the first vehicle driven off the line at Dagenham in 1931.

During the summer, heritage vehicles added to the appeal of classic motor racing with two original GT40 models acting as course cars at the Goodwood Revival.

The 40th anniversary of the Capri saw renewed interest in the Collection's three Capris, including a rare Ferguson four-wheel drive, 3.0-litre V6, automatic.

Looking forward to 2010 and anniversaries for the Escort Mexico, Escort XR3i and Cortina Mk III, heritage fleet administrator, John Nevill, said: "We are very proud that this is a working collection and look forward to making full use of its 100th vehicle, the Ford Focus RS, next year.

"The Focus RS joins some very special cars and proves you're never too young to be a classic."

(PR/BMcC)

Related Northern Ireland Motoring News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

02 March 2010
New Focus Estate
The stylish next-generation Ford Focus estate makes its global debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show alongside the sporty Focus five-door, appearing for the first time in Europe. More than 1.3 million Ford Focus models have been sold in the UK since its launch in 1998.
19 April 2010
Ford Focus RS Upgrade Kit Launched as RS500 Sells Out
With all 101 Ford Focus RS500 models snapped up by UK fast Ford fans within days of launch, Ford is responding to the intense customer demand with an officially-approved Focus RS performance upgrade kit. Ford Focus RS owners can now give their ‘regular’ 305PS superhatch an extra 45PS and 20Nm of torque.
09 April 2010
Ford Fiesta Tops UK Car Sales
Strong demand for Ford's best-ever product line-up has helped to increase the blue oval brand's UK market lead during March's changeover to the "10" plate. Ford's UK sales lead for the month, and for the year to date, has increased by more than 50% compared with 2009. Ford car sales, at 62,075, were up 18.7% compared with March 2009.
12 January 2010
New Focus Unveiled
The next-generation Ford Focus makes its worldwide debut today at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Ford said it would provide customers with more affordable technologies and features than ever in this segment, as well as detailed craftsmanship, outstanding fuel economy and a new standard for driving quality.
02 March 2010
RS 5 Coupe UK Specification
Audi UK has today confirmed an OTR price of £57,480 for the UK-bound RS 5 high performance coupé.