New Limited Edition Focus Rs 500!
Taking the already potent RS as a base, the RS500 features a revised engine that will really get fast Ford fans talking. The Volvo-sourced turbocharged 2.5-litre has been tweaked by UK-based tuner Mountune. The result is a power output boosted to 345bhp – a 15 per cent increase from standard. Plus, torque has risen from 440Nm to 460Nm, to give the engine yet more mid-range punch.
To squeeze out all the extra power, the RS500 is equipped with an enlarged intercooler, which feeds colder, denser air into the engine. A larger exhaust downpipe and new fuel pump have been fitted to keep up with the unit’s higher performance demands.
In addition, the engine management system has been recalibrated to optimise the delivery of power for maximum pace. As a result, the sprint from 0-62mph now takes only 5.6 seconds – three-tenths faster than the standard car – while top speed is up from 163mph to 165mph.
Ford will offer only one colour – a striking matt black foil finish, specially developed for the car by American technology firm 3M. The foil is applied by hand after each model rolls off the line at Ford’s plant in Saarlouis, Germany. A unique blue and red badge is also added to the tailgate.
Inside, a number of modifications have been carried out. The RS500 is based on the top-spec version of the RS, so it already gets air-con, parking sensors and Recaro seats. But in addition, each car is individually numbered with a plaque on the centre console. There’s a unique red colour scheme, with red stitching for the leather on the steering wheel, door trims and gearlever gaiter. The only options are a touchscreen DVD sat-nav and red leather seats.
