History 1980s

Ford RS200

Overview Specs Highlights Characteristics

Overview

The Ford RS200 was Ford’s long-awaited response to the rising firepower of Group B. Designed entirely from scratch, the RS200 featured a mid-mounted turbocharged engine and sophisticated four-wheel-drive system housed within a lightweight composite shell. Its futuristic styling and balanced chassis were engineered for one goal: to dominate world rally stages. However, late homologation in 1986 meant the RS200 had little time to prove itself before Group B was canceled — turning this high-potential prototype into a symbol of what might have been.

Technical Specs & Innovations

The RS200 was engineered with an ideal weight balance and cutting-edge drivetrain — placing it among the most technically advanced cars in Group B. It was stable at high speeds and exceptionally quick off the line.

🏆 Competitive Highlights

  • 1986 WRC Debut: Entered key rounds including Sweden, Portugal, and Acropolis Rally.
  • 1986 Rally Sweden: Kalle Grundel finishes 3rd overall — the car’s best WRC result.
  • British Rally Championship: Gained traction in national events and rallycross post-Group B ban.

Though the RS200 showed glimpses of promise, it arrived too late to mount a full WRC campaign. Its development was rushed, and it struggled with reliability — but the platform held immense potential that was never fully realized.

Driving Characteristics

The RS200 was one of the most balanced Group B cars ever built. With minimal understeer, quick turn-in, and a perfectly centered engine layout, it felt composed on a wide range of surfaces. However, early models suffered from turbo lag and unpredictable handling at the limit. In the hands of skilled drivers, it was explosively fast — but with limited seat time and testing, few could fully extract its potential during its short-lived WRC career.

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