Brendan Beirne/ShutterstockCar and driver
He is Ford Escort RS Turbo is a unique example and not just because it was released and used for several years by Diana of Wales. It is precisely the modifications made to it to “adapt” it to the princess that make it unique. Diana of Wales had already shown her preference for the Ford Escort, a model of which she had already had two units, including a red Cabrio with which she was photographed countless times. The British Royal Household Security Services deemed it not a suitable vehicle for the Princess. A manual canvas roof offered no privacy and little protection in case someone approached the car.
Silverstone AuctionsCar and driver
In 1985, when she was already the mother of her two children, Princes William and Harry, Diana of Wales again chose an escort for her trips through London, because it seems that she did not like driving big cars. and luxurious models on its most private roads. trips that was available to him in the palace. He wanted a more maneuverable and agile car for the city and again opted for the Ford Escort but in this case for an RS Turbo. The first series of the mighty Escort had only been produced in pristine white, and the Princess’ security department asked Ford for the car in a less showy color. The brand painted it black, making it the only RS Turbo S1 in this color.. They also changed the front grille to the five-slat one that all Escorts of the time had, instead of the one fitted to the RS Turbo, and a radio was installed in the glove box that the Escort that always accompanied Diana used, a radio he still has the car.
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An RS Turbo cared for like a prince
Lady Di used the Escort RS Turbo until 1988 when it was returned to Ford Motor Company with only 6,800 miles, or approximately 10,900 kilometres. In this time The princess has been photographed numerous times on the streets of London, even carrying Prince William in the back seat. The RS Turbo was bought by a new owner and during its run over the past 37 years it has even entered a promotional competition for Kiss FM in the UK. The truth is that the car has arrived until today in perfect condition (almost in competition) and with only 24,961 miles, approximately 40,000 kilometers, checked and certified in the thorough examinations that have been carried out on its history of inspection.
Silverstone AuctionsCar and driver
The Escort RS Turbo will be auctioned at Silverstone Auctions on August 27, just four days before the 25th anniversary of the tragic accident that claimed the life of the princess in a Paris tunnel. The starting price is known only to those interested in the auction, but it will certainly be one of the cars that will raise the most expectations.
Silverstone AuctionsCar and driver
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