The Ford RS200 is a proper legend not only in the realm of The Blue Oval, but also, the automotive world as a whole. That’s to be expected for a homologated machine created specifically so that Ford could go FIA Group B rally racing, which remains the most thrilling (and dangerous) version of that series in history. However, only 140 units of the Ford RS200 were built in total, with a mere 24 of them offered in the more hardcore Evolution spec, making each quite valuable in today’s world. Thus, this replica makes perfect sense as an alternative to spending big money on the real thing.
This Ford RS200 replica was put together by a UK-based company called KaRa Sport Cars in the 1990s, but it has since been imported into the U.S. and titled as a 1970 Lotus in California and is now up for auction at Bring a Trailer. It was officially sold as the KaRa 430 when new, and features fiberglass bodywork on top of a jig-welded tubular steel spaceframe with an integrated roll cage and monocoque center section. KaRa offered a variety of kits with different options for interested customers, too. Regardless, it’s fairly true to the original, and in this case, features four Cibié driving lights to go along with front and rear clamshells and white OZ Racing wheels.
Inside the cabin, one will find a pair of gray cloth-covered Recaro bucket seats, a Phase PMP180U AM/FM/CD head unit, and power windows, mirrors, and locks. Power comes from a turbocharged Cosworth 2.0L inline-four powerplant, which is mated to a five-speed manual transmission. Additionally, all four corners are fitted with double LEDA coilovers and ventilated disc brakes.
Other than a few chips and cracks in the bodywork, coupled with a right-side window that works intermittently, there aren’t too many other flaws present in this cool replica. It only has a mere 15k miles showing on the odometer as well, though it’s unclear if that has turned over. Regardless, it isn’t every day that we see vehicles like this – in fact, it may be even rarer than the real thing right now.
Comment
Group B struck fear into drivers, fans and officials as the cars were VERY volatile. And that clone is WAY underpriced. Cool piece.