Boreham TEN-K Engine Unveiled for Mk1 Ford Escort RS

Boreham Motorworks has lifted the veil on its latest engineering marvel: the TEN-K, a lightweight, high-revving four-cylinder petrol engine destined for its continuation Mk1 Ford Escort RS.

For enthusiasts of pure, naturally aspirated performance, this is the kind of engine that evokes serious excitement. With lightweight internals, advanced cylinder head technology, and a focus on rev-happy responsiveness, the TEN-K promises to deliver a driving experience reminiscent of classic motorsport legends.

A Modern Take on a Classic Engine

Boreham Motorworks (BM), operating under the DRVN Automotive umbrella, is continuing its mission to produce authentic Mk1 Ford Escort RS continuation cars. Unlike restomods that rely on modern drivetrains, these vehicles aim to preserve the character and spirit of the originals while incorporating contemporary engineering advancements.

The TEN-K engine embodies that philosophy. Every major component—crankshaft, connecting rods, engine cradle, dry sump system, and even the cam cover—has been engineered with weight reduction in mind.

The result? An engine that weighs just 85kg, a remarkable achievement for a high-performance four-cylinder. BM credits this to 3D printing technology, which allows a sculpted engine block to wrap precisely around its lightweight internals, optimizing both efficiency and performance.

F1-Inspired Cylinder Head and High-Revving Performance

Central to the TEN-K's performance is a 16-valve cylinder head featuring F1-inspired port geometry. According to BM, this design optimizes gas flow and ensures precise power delivery across the rev range.

The company is targeting 325bhp at 10,000rpm, a notable increase from the 296bhp figures reported last year. This makes the TEN-K one of the most extreme naturally aspirated four-pot engines in recent automotive history, promising both auditory and tactile thrills.

"The Boreham TEN-K is the result of relentless effort from our engine development team," said Iain Muir, boss of DRVN Automotive. "It's a demonstration of what can be achieved when passion and precision come together. With the engine currently installed in the car and mated to the bespoke, all-new, ultra-lightweight, fully floating rear axle, I can't wait to see it fired up for its first test run."

Precision Engineering Meets Modern Technology

Beyond sheer power, Boreham Motorworks has focused on immediate and direct throttle response, claiming that six months of development have optimized the engine for crisp, responsive delivery. The dry sump system, coupled with the ultra-lightweight construction, ensures not just high revs but also enhanced reliability and durability—a critical factor for an engine designed to scream to 10,000rpm.

For gearheads, the TEN-K recalls the days when naturally aspirated four-cylinders dominated both rally stages and track circuits. Lightweight, high-revving, and mechanically pure, it is a rare blend of nostalgia and cutting-edge engineering that stands in stark contrast to today's turbocharged landscape.

Market Impact and Future Outlook

Boreham's limited-run continuation Mk1 Escort RSs, powered by the TEN-K, are expected to capture the attention of collectors and enthusiasts alike. With a combination of high-performance engineering, meticulous weight-saving, and faithful adherence to classic design principles, these cars position Boreham as a niche yet highly credible player in the classic performance market.

As the TEN-K undergoes its first live tests, the automotive world will be watching closely. This engine not only demonstrates BM's engineering capabilities but also signals a broader trend: the enduring appeal of lightweight, naturally aspirated engines in an era dominated by turbocharging and electrification.

The project builds on the legacy of Ford's performance heritage, continuing the storied tradition of rally-bred Escort performance variants that have captured enthusiasts' imaginations for decades.

Conclusion

The Boreham TEN-K is more than just a high-revving four-cylinder; it's a statement of intent from a company dedicated to precision, passion, and automotive authenticity. With 325bhp, a featherlight 85kg weight, and F1-inspired engineering, it promises to deliver one of the purest driving experiences for Mk1 Ford Escort RS enthusiasts. As Boreham prepares for the first test runs, one thing is certain: the TEN-K is a bold reminder that sometimes, old-school performance with modern engineering is exactly what the automotive world needs.

For those inspired by this engineering masterpiece, exploring the best cars to modify can reveal other platforms where passion meets performance potential.