According to reports, Ford has recently trademarked the iconic “RS200” name in Europe, sparking speculation about the potential resurrection of this legendary model. This decision has reignited enthusiasts’ hopes for the return of a rally-styled sports car from Ford’s lineup.
The RS200 holds a significant place in Ford’s history, originally designed to dominate Group B rallying. Its mid-engined construction and limited production of 200 units have contributed to its status as a highly sought-after collector’s item, fetching prices as high as $500,000 in today’s market.
The trademarking of the RS200 name hints at various possibilities for its revival. One exciting prospect is the introduction of a new compact sports car, potentially positioned alongside the Mustang GT. This new model could emphasize off-road capabilities, drawing inspiration from Ford’s recent ventures like the Mustang Mach-E Rally edition. Alternatively, Ford might explore a limited-volume supercar iteration, leveraging the performance capabilities showcased in models like the Mustang GT Performance Edition, or even some type of electrification for a rally-inspired sports car.
While traditionalists may yearn for a gasoline-powered engine, the increasing prevalence of electric vehicles opens the door to the possibility of an electrified RS200. Leveraging technology from the Mach-E GT Performance Edition, such a variant could deliver impressive power and torque figures suitable for performance enthusiasts.
Another speculation surrounds the potential use of the RS200 name as a trim level or special edition, possibly within Ford’s crossover lineup. Rumors suggest a two-door variant of the Mustang Mach-E could emerge, offering a sportier alternative within the electric crossover segment. In this scenario, the RS200 badging would align well, especially if applied to an off-road-oriented version. However, some purists may express concerns about diluting the RS200’s legacy by associating it with a crossover model.
Despite the excitement surrounding the potential revival of the RS200, there remains the possibility that Ford’s trademarking efforts are merely precautionary, aimed at safeguarding the name for future use. However, enthusiasts remain hopeful that this move signals a forthcoming addition to Ford’s lineup, bringing back a piece of automotive history for a new generation of enthusiasts to enjoy.
Source: AutoGuide
