Unveiled in secrecy, Ford crafted a one-of-a-kind Escort RS Turbo for Princess Diana, offering a royal driving experience unlike any other.
In the annals of royal and automotive history, Princess Diana's custom-built 1985 Ford Escort RS Turbo stands out as a unique symbol of personal taste, independence, and down-to-earth charm. Unlike the more formal and armoured vehicles usually associated with the British royal family, Diana preferred to drive herself, showcasing her love for the sporty and rare car.
Ordered in the summer of 1985, the black Escort RS Turbo was a special request from Diana's security detail, seeking a stealthier vehicle for the Princess. The PR Department at Ford suggested painting the car black, and Diana, in response, chose Ford's flagship model. Equipped with a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine boosted by a turbocharger, the car delivered 132 horsepower and 181 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox, making for a nimble setup for a compact car weighing approximately one ton.
Diana drove this car extensively for about three years, covering roughly 10,000 km, likely enjoying drives between Chelsea's boutiques and Kensington's restaurants. After her ownership, the car returned to Ford and then changed hands several times before being auctioned off by Silverstone Auctions.
In the summer of 2022, the car sold for an astonishing £724,500, a record-breaking price for such a model, attributed to its royal provenance, rarity, and excellent preservation. It had just under 25,000 miles on its odometer at auction, indicating careful use throughout its lifetime.
This vehicle is often referred to as 'the People's Sports Car' for the 'People's Princess', reflecting Diana's approachable and down-to-earth character. The combination of its unique story, rarity, and association with the beloved Princess contributed to the extraordinary auction result that summer.
Interestingly, this specific Escort RS Turbo is a one-of-a-kind model, as it is the only one painted in all black among the 8,600 Series 1 RS Turbos. The car under the hood houses Ford's famous 1.6-liter CVH engine, a Garrett T3 turbocharger, and intercooler, making it a true testament to the power and performance of the Ford Escort range, which was universally beloved and appreciated even before this car.
Despite the most optimistic forecasts having the car selling for anywhere between £100-120,000, the record-breaking sale of Princess Diana's Ford Escort RS Turbo at auction demonstrated the enduring appeal and historical significance of this vehicle. The car's association with Diana, a beloved figure worldwide, continues to captivate and inspire, serving as a reminder of her enduring legacy.
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