Ford Focus RS WRC 01

Housing a myriad of innovation under its production-car exterior, such as the longitudinally mounted engine and transmission, the Ford Focus set the rally world on its heels at its debut in 1999. For the 2001 season, the focus of improvements revolved mainly around the engine. The 2-liter, 4-cylinder engine was given a longer stroke and several changes were made to the exhaust manifold. With the installation of a new turbo charger, even more torque and response could be realized. In addition to last year's drivers, Colin McRae and Carlos Sainz, Francois Delecour was added to Ford's talent rich roster for 2001. McRae took three wins in a row at the 5th, 6th, and 7th races, and Sainz took the second prize in the 1st and 3rd races, showing Ford's championship potential.