The current generation Ford Focus is nearing the end of its road, but Ford has commissioned a final run of extra high-performance Focus RS models, dubbed the RS500, to send it off.
Ford of Europe released a video that shows an RS500 being built from the ground up, including the final touches which come with the help of specialists from 3M, which apply a unique automotive grade matte-black vinyl over the car for a unique look.
Building an RS500
Ford Focus RS500 refresher
The RS500 will only see 500 examples produced, all of which were sold out in the first few minutes from going on sale. This hot hatch is Ford’s fastest Focus ever, thanks to its 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine which boasts a 15 percent improvement in power over the standard Focus RS’s 300 horsepower. In RS500 tune, the turbocharged Duratec five-cylinder cranks out 345 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, while torque is up to 339 lb-ft. from 2,500 to 4,500 rpm.
A much larger intercooler, increased air flow air filter box, larger diameter exhaust downpipe and an upgraded fuel pump help handle the extra power, although much of the added grunt comes from software calibration. Ford suggests that the Focus RS500 will scoot to 62mph in 5.6 seconds.
Despite only putting to the ground through the front wheels, Ford says that the Focus RS500 is an exceptionally strong-handling machine. Ford’s patented in-house RevoKnuckle front suspension and Quaife helical limited slip differential help reduce torque steer and improve traction. The RS500 was developed primarily on the famed Nürburgring Nordschleife in Germany.
The RS500 gets a unique black finish for the standard Focus RS alloy wheels, while the upgraded brake calipers are painted red.
Inside, the RS500 gains an individually-numbered metal plaque and a carbon-effect finish with an RS pattern. The seats are swathed in a unique red trim rather than the standard RS’ blue, and Ford will offer Recaro-branded red leather seats as an upgrade. Navigation is the RS500’s only other option.
