1990 Ford Sierra Sapphire RS Cosworth (2WD) - 17,000 Miles

In 1986, the original Sierra Cosworth was a new kind of performance car - a 'blue collar' hero able to humble true sports cars. A couple of years later, Ford introduced the Sierra Sapphire RS Cosworth, a more 'discreet' version, built using the four-door Sapphire bodyshell, initially with the same rear-wheel drive layout as the three-door original and then later with four-wheel drive, but even with a more restrained exterior, a plush velour interior and an executive four-door shell, the Sapphire was far from dull. The early rear-wheel drive cars benefited from 204bhp from the YBB engine (205 block), a T5 gearbox, 7" x 15" lattice alloy wheels, front and rear spoilers, side skirts and Recaro seats, with 0-60mph taking 6.1 seconds. Despite the extra power and potential for greater traction, the later four-wheel drive Sapphire was slower to 60mph, reaching the speed in 6.6 seconds. Approximately 13,140 two-wheel drive Sapphire examples were produced during 1988-1989 and all were assembled in Belgium at Ghenk powered by UK-built Ford-Cosworth engines.

The car presented here is a 1990 Ford Sierra Sapphire RS Cosworth, chassis #GBBFKE59875, a late production two-wheel drive example in super original, unmolested condition. First registered on 29th March 1990, it has covered just over 17,042 miles within the same family (its two former keepers were husband and wife). A combination of diligent ownership, minimal use (due to circumstances) and sheer preservation now means this ‘Performance Ford’ is in collector-quality condition. Resplendent in its Diamond White paintwork, the original Ford Motorsport colour, you’d struggle to find a better example than this. Accompanied by its complete book pack and history file, this is one for the true aficionado of the Blue Oval.

We are informed that this exceptional car still retains its original factory-fitted panels and its original paint throughout. The interior is described as showing virtually no wear on the switchgear or surfaces, all the dials and switchgear are said to function correctly, there are no cracks or UV damage to the dashboard, and the original Recaro seats remain in beautiful condition.

With the availability of a substantial number of aftermarket performance and cosmetic enhancements for these cars, it’s rare to find one with nothing added or nothing taken away, so if you are looking for an unmolested, original RS Cosworth, this is probably one of the worthiest candidates currently available. The lighter and rarer version of the Sapphire, this two-wheel drive example is one for the Ford connoisseur and is offered at an attractive price guide, offering its new owner entry into the exclusive world of RS ownership. The car comes to auction having benefitted from a full service (including cambelt), a new water pump and four new tyres.