A Ford Escort RS Cosworth previously owned by Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson has been sold on Auto Trader.

Jeremy Clarkson’s old Ford was soon snapped up by a motorist seeking hot hatch thrills after being advertised on the number one motoring site.

The lucky buyer can look forward to the car’s staggering performance.

It uses a turbocharged 2-litre engine to produce 227bhp, channelled to all four wheels through a five speed gearbox.

This accelerates the 1993 model from 0-60mph in 5.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 140mph.

And with the spoiler removed, the Cosworth will hit 147mph – making it a great track-day car.

Clarkson described his old Ford – which he named Gary – as ‘the ultimate hot hatch’ and ‘one of my favourite cars of all-time.’

And it can still match its modern day rivals for speed.

In a 2003 episode of Top Gear, the Escort Cosworth went up against the Ford Focus RS in a straight-line drag race with the older Cossie thrashing its younger sibling.

But if you’re looking for a Ford Escort RS Cosworth, don’t worry if you’ve missed out on Jeremy Clarkson’s. There are currently 17 for sale on Auto Trader with prices starting from £11,995.