Currently reading: Ken Block reveals Gymkhana Ford Escort Mk2 RS

Ken Block will run updated 1978 rally car, now with 333bhp, in the UK this weekend

Celebrated drift and rally driver Ken Block has revealed his latest car, a 333bhp Mk2 Ford Escort RS. 

The custom-built Escort was Block’s first Ford rally car when he bought it in 2008, and it has been upgraded with a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder Millington engine, redlining at 9000rpm and producing 333bhp, transmitted through a six-speed sequential gearbox. The Escort features custom bodywork by Japanese specialist Rocket Bunny, and a unique wheel design.

Read Ken Block's guide to drifting here

Block, who will drive the car at Monster Energy’s Gymkhana GRID competition at Santa Pod this weekend, explained its origins in his collection: “I purchased it in 2008," he said. "It was designed to compete in Tarmac events, but unfortunately those are quite lacking now Stateside, so instead of converting it into a gravel machine, I had my team at Hoonigan Racing Division extend its Tarmac capabilities and develop it into the ultimate rear wheel-drive Gymkhana car.

“This car has been something I’ve been working on slowly for a long time now. I’m stoked with how the whole thing turned out. I’ve only been able to test this car for two days, but I’m looking forward to slaying some more tires in this thing really soon. The car absolutely rips, especially at 9000 rpm.”

Watch Ken Block in action in his 333bhp Mk2 Ford Escort RS here:

Watch Ken Block's guide to drifting with Autocar here:

Jimi Beckwith

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