After the fiery demise of his beloved 1991 Ford Escort Cosworth Group A rallycar in 2018, Ken Block, a name synonymous with automotive mayhem and the legendary Hoonicorn, knew a replacement was essential. For 2019, he unleashed the “Cossie V2,” a machine that takes everything fans adored about the original Ford Escort Cosworth and cranks it up to eleven. Block, alongside creative visionary Ash Thorp, envisioned a modern evolution of the Escort RS Cosworth rallycar, imagining how Ford’s current World Rally Championship team might design it today. The result? The Cossie V2 – a strong contender for the wildest Escort “Cossie” ever conceived, echoing the boundary-pushing spirit of the Hoonicorn itself.
This isn’t just a rebuild; it’s a comprehensive reimagining. Under the hood sits an engine crafted by Julian Godfrey Engineering, a powerhouse based on the 2000cc Escort WRC engine. Featuring an aluminum block, a bespoke Development intake manifold, and an IHI Turbo Charger equipped with a 34mm Restrictor, this engine is built for serious performance.
The body shell underwent extensive modifications to accommodate the state-of-the-art Sadev transmission. MDV Specialist Engineering Ltd handled the fabrication and build, while HRD/MDV collaborated on the aggressive new bodywork. This includes a striking front bumper and splitter, rear bumper and diffuser, widened rear quarter panels, side sills, a redesigned rear tailgate and spoiler, and a custom bonnet – each element contributing to the car’s assertive stance.
Power is nothing without control, and the Cossie V2 boasts a Sadev 6-speed sequential transmission, paired with Sadev SP03 front and rear differentials, driveshafts, propshafts, and gearchange tower. An AP Racing Carbon Clutch ensures rapid gear changes and power delivery.
For suspension, Reiger shock absorbers are employed, alongside Ford Escort WRC crossmembers and revised suspension arms tailored for a wider track geometry. Repositioned front and rear suspension turrets further refine the handling, crucial for rally-inspired performance.
Electronically, the Cossie V2 is as advanced as it is mechanically. A Cosworth ECU – MQ, Cosworth IPS – Power unit, and Cosworth Drivers Display – Omega form the brains of the operation. A bespoke chassis and engine harness, along with a Cosworth switch panel, integrate seamlessly, mirroring technology found in Ford Fiesta World Rally Cars.
Inside, Recaro Racer SPA Seats and a Stilo intercom system equip the cockpit for performance driving. Braking is handled by AP Racing Brake calipers and discs, with Ferodo Brake pads providing immense stopping power.
The Cossie V2 rolls on Rotiform VCE-M forged 3-piece gloss white wheels, sized 18×8.5 with a 4×108 PCD and 31 offset. Toyo Tires Proxes, sized 225/40ZR18, ensure optimal grip and responsiveness.
Ken Block’s Cossie V2 is more than just a replacement car; it’s a testament to his and his team’s dedication to pushing automotive boundaries, echoing the spirit of innovation and extreme performance that defines projects like the Hoonicorn. It’s a modern rally weapon infused with classic Cossie DNA, ready to tear up tarmac and dirt alike.
