Bargain Hunter: Car of the week

The ultimate Cosworth

FORD IS set to launch a high-performance Cosworth-badged version of the Focus, the car of the year. It should be impressive, but it has a hard act to follow in the shape of the hand-built Escort RS Cosworth.

Just 7,143 were delivered between 1992 and 1995. The last batch had a smaller, more responsive turbo that delivered supercar performance of 140mph and 60mph in less than six seconds.

Cosworth specialist Automotive Unlimited (01279 8160490) in Essex has perhaps the finest example in captivity, with an astoundingly low 3,800 miles on the clock. Finished in an attractive light blue and with a comprehensive specification, including leather interior and air conditioning, the asking price of pounds 25,995 is very competitive. Collectors will curse if they miss out.