Experience the Thrill of the Group 5 Car
As I stand in the pits, Henry reassures me that the Group 5 car I am about to drive will be a far cry from the upcoming road car. This racing beast lacks vibration damping and features unservoed brakes for that authentic period-correct experience.
Behind the deeply dished steering wheel lies just over 200bhp, which is channeled to the 172mm-wide rear Dunlop crossply tyres through an English axle. The road-going Escort RS, shrouded in mystery, promises to blend engagement with modern drivability and grip.
Picture a Quaife differential, coilovers, a sophisticated ECU, and 225-section rear tyres with a modern compound. But don’t expect any modern comforts like ABS, traction control, or power steering.
What sets our racing car apart today are the meticulous details. The Tillett bucket seats and pedal layout are tailored to Frank’s exact preferences, ensuring seamless rev-matched downshifts. And the Bakelite gearknob, used to navigate the H-pattern gearbox through its four speeds with precision, is a relic from Frank’s own car, XOO 349F.
While Henry acknowledges that this modern continuation effort offers a more thrilling driving experience than the original, it still lacks the mystique of 349F. However, for me, it exudes a sense of nostalgia and excitement.
And as you glance at the big oil light on the dashboard, salvaged from a GT40 just as it would have been in its heyday, the authenticity of the experience truly comes to life.
