Ford Fiesta RS WRC in the World Rally Championship
Manufacturer:
Ford
Category: WRC
Since 2011 until 2016
The Ford Fiesta RS WRC was introduced by Ford in 2011 as a World Rally Car (WRC) developed to compete in the FIA World Rally Championship. Based on the production model Ford Fiesta, the RS WRC was designed and engineered to tackle the most extreme rally conditions, including dirt, gravel, snow, and tarmac. This car followed the Ford Focus RS WRC and quickly gained a reputation as a versatile and competitive machine in the hands of the best drivers.
Key Highlights
Engine and Performance:
- Powered by a 1.6-liter, 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, producing around 300 horsepower.
- Built under new WRC regulations, the car emphasized compactness, agility, and high power-to-weight ratio.
- The car featured all-wheel drive and a sequential six-speed gearbox, offering superb traction on varied surfaces.
Chassis and Design:
- The bodywork was based on the popular road-going Ford Fiesta but significantly modified to meet the rigors of WRC.
- Its lightweight design and advanced aerodynamics, including a large rear wing and wide stance, ensured stability and speed.
- Adjustable suspension and a robust roll cage were key features for handling rough terrains and protecting drivers.
Development:
- The Fiesta RS WRC was developed in collaboration with M-Sport, Ford’s official partner in rallying, under the guidance of chief engineer Christian Loriaux.
- The car utilized a highly adaptable suspension setup, making it suitable for all WRC events, whether in snowy Sweden or rocky Greece.
Best Pilots
The Ford Fiesta RS WRC saw many great drivers behind its wheel, bringing notable successes throughout its years in competition.
- Sébastien Ogier: Though best known for his time with Volkswagen, Ogier drove the Fiesta RS WRC with M-Sport after VW’s exit from the WRC, securing two consecutive World Championships in 2017 and 2018.
- Ott Tänak: The Estonian driver, known for his aggressive style, drove the Fiesta RS WRC during his time at M-Sport, contributing significantly to its victories.
- Mikko Hirvonen: A loyal Ford driver, Hirvonen piloted the Fiesta RS WRC to several podium finishes and was a strong contender in the early 2010s.
- Elfyn Evans: A promising talent from Wales, Evans drove the Fiesta RS WRC with M-Sport, winning his first WRC event at Wales Rally GB 2017.
Palmares and Achievements
The Ford Fiesta RS WRC enjoyed considerable success over its competitive lifespan, with some of its most notable achievements including:
- Back-to-Back Drivers' Championships (2017 and 2018) with Sébastien Ogier, marking a major resurgence for Ford and M-Sport.
- Constructors' Championship in 2017, breaking Volkswagen’s dominance and showcasing the strength of the Fiesta RS WRC.
- Numerous rally wins in WRC events such as Rally Sweden, Rally GB, and Rally de Portugal, highlighting the car's adaptability across various terrains.
- The Fiesta RS WRC was instrumental in making M-Sport a consistent challenger against larger factory teams like Volkswagen and Citroën.
Legacy
The Ford Fiesta RS WRC remains one of the most successful rally cars in Ford’s history. It proved that with the right engineering and drivers, a compact car could excel at the highest levels of rallying. It helped M-Sport and Ford secure crucial victories and championships, leaving a lasting impact on the sport’s modern era.
The Fiesta RS WRC was succeeded by the Ford Fiesta WRC in 2017, continuing Ford's rallying tradition with even greater success. The car's achievements remain a testament to Ford's commitment to motorsport innovation.
