Ken Block reveals new RWD Ford Escort Gymkhana vehicle

Ken Block has unveiled a new Gymkhana vehicle based on the 1978 European Mark II Ford Escort RS.

According to Block, he purchased the car back in 2008 and used it for a while in some rally events. As the car was designed primarily for tarmac-based races, which aren’t too common in the US, Block decided to convert the Escort coupe into the “ultimate rear wheel-drive Gymkhana car”.

After two years in development, the car has been thoroughly overhauled and redesigned with, what’s claimed to be, plenty of “top-level WRC-spec” components.

Under the bonnet, the heavily modified Escort RS features a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated Millington engine that can rev all the way to its 9000rpm redline and churn out 248kW of power. Drive is sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed sequential gearbox.

The car’s wide body stance and flared wheel arches are thanks to Japanese designers Rocket Bunny, while Block’s team at Hoonigan has managed to put a stylised version of the country’s flag on the hood.

The car rides on two-piece fiften52 wheels shod with Pirelli tyres. Inside, the car features a modern steering gear and controls, LCD instrumentation and Recaro bucket seats.

Block’s new Gymkhana vehicle will debut at a Gymkhana event this weekend in the UK, and will star in a new video feature next year.