Ford has just unveiled a prototype of the Focus RS8 – which is powered by a modified, 313-kW Mustang Cobra engine – at the SEMA show in La Vegas.
Ford has just unveiled a prototype of the Focus RS8 – which is powered by a 313 kW Mustang Cobra engine – at the SEMA show in La Vegas.
As its name suggests, the RS8 features a V8 engine developed by Ford Racing Performance Parts (FRPP) from the 4,6-litre Mustang powerplant. The RS8 features an all-alloy, 40-valve, 5,0-litre engine that produces 313 kW and 536 N.m of torque.
Using FRPP’s ‘plug and play’ engine electronics installations, this mighty engine has been crammed into the compact Focus’ engine bay. Its powertrain components have been borrowed from the rear-drive Mustang.
A five-speed manual transmission with Ford Racing clutch kit and a prototype shifter have also been fitted to the little Focus.
The RS8 also comes equipped with a Ford Racing differential and an all-new suspension set-up with adjustable ride height using Multimatic dampers.
Ford Racing’s new 5,0 -litre “Cammer” crate engine comes with a stock SVT Mustang Cobra oil pan and exhaust manifolds, so an exhaust system – employing Ford Racing prototype metal-substrate catalysts and a set of Ford Racing dual-mode mufflers – was custom-built to put the engine heat to the street.
The pearl-blue show car had RS-like styling features based on the European Focus RS, while inside it was dominated by Ford Racing instruments and gauges. Ford has also installed a killer sound system to match the car’s performance. The Focus RS’s 18-inch alloys with Michelin Pilot Sport 225/40 ZR18 tyres up front and 255/45 ZR18s behind have also been added.
And though this is only a prototype show car, FRPP will be offering a “rear-wheel drive conversion kit” for the DIY’ers in the States. Along with the 5 , 0-litre engine, the wiring kit and all other necessary components will cost about R106 121. Ford will be displaying the RS8 at a number of hot rod and drag racing events in the States next year and the V8 engine is expected to be fitted in a number of low-volume European sports cars, too.