Mike Purcell - 2010 Ford Focus RS Mountune MR375 Clubsport - *Second place*

Purchased in January 2010 from RS Direct in Bristol, this Ford Focus RS was originally Jackson Ford’s demo car before being sold to a well-known Ford enthusiast who installed many Mountune upgrades.

Initially, Mike used it as a fun weekend car, taking it to the Nürburgring, the Stelvio Pass in Italy, and various locations across the UK and Europe. Over time, it evolved into a full show car, undergoing extensive restoration, including the underside, engine bay, interior, and paintwork.

For the past three years, the car has competed in concours events with the Ford RSOC, winning 24 trophies, including 15 First in Class, 4 Best Presented, 3 Concours Car of the Show, and 2 Concours Gold Cups. In 2024, Jimmy McRae presented me with a Car of the Show award.

“Most of the restoration was done by me,” explains Mike. “I stripped the underside, powder-coated everything, and rebuilt it with new bolts, bearings, and Powerflex bushes. The suspension and drive shafts were also rebuilt. The engine bay saw a complete refresh, with the front end removed to clean and modify the engine—always a talking point at shows. The interior was also overhauled, with refreshed trim, embossed suede rear seats, and various custom modifications.”

This car has become Mike’s passion, a project he shares with his young son. With their aggressive styling and bold colours, these RS models are now being recognised at classic car events.