Concept Car of the Week: Ford Mustang RSX Concept (1979)

In the late ‘70s, Ford commissioned carrozzeria Ghia to build a concept car based on the Fox platform to help promote its third generation Mustang.

Probably inspired by the Escort RS's success at the World Rally Championship, the concept was dubbed RSX – standing for Rally Sport Experimental – and the Fox platform-based Mustang was modified as a rally car.

To improve the handling, the wheelbase from the Fox was shortened by 142mm, the track was widened by around 25mm at the rear while the ride height was increased for off-tarmac stages of European rallies. Two seats were considered ample, so the rear seats were thrown out which, combined with the plastic body panels, contributed to keeping the car as light as possible.

Aerodynamics was a strong focus of the design, evident in its smooth surfaces, rear spoiler and oversized integrated side skirt. And don't be fooled by the hexagonal doors, they're not made of glass – on a rally car that would've been lethal. It‘s a large piece of plexiglass bonded over the door panels, but the illusion still works. Under the bonnet is the post-recession 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbo from the production Mustang, producing an underwhelming 132bhp.

Inside, all the components are rather basic and understated apart from the opulent leather seats that appear to have been taken from a cigar room.

Designed to appeal to both Americans and Europeans, the RSX was never meant for production. Three years later Group-B rallying was introduced and even though the RSX would have been a perfect contender, Ford released the famous RS200 instead.

First seen 1979 Chicago Auto Show
Engine 2.3-liter four cylinder turbo
Power 132 bhp

Your author, Flavien Dachet, is a UK-based, French-born car designer. You may know him as the purveyor of KarzNshit, a photo blog that if isn't already in your bookmarks, certainly should be.

By Flavien Dachet