1986 Ford Sierra RS Cosworth

Highlights

• ‘Holy Grail’ early homologation 3dr RS Cosworth
• Classic Moonstone Blue metallic car in show-standard condition
• Comprehensive nut and bolt restoration to a very high standard
• Presented in largely standard specification, running in stock tune
• Extensive use of NOS parts during the restoration
• Engine rebuilt with strengthened internals
• Car will be sold with fresh MOT

The Appeal

Ford would go on to exploit the success of the original with other Sierra Cosworths, but it is this car, the original 3dr RS Cosworth, the one built for Group A homologation, that started it all and the one purists want. Just 5,045 were built, excluding RS500s, all featuring the stiff three door shell and fitted with that 204bhp Cosworth-titivated 2L engine.

These early wild winged cars, particularly in the Moonstone Blue of this impeccably presented car, are virtually the definition of the 80s. They are proper motoring icons, and one of the greatest Fast Fords ever built, which is saying something considering the competition. We’ll go further and suggest that this example is one of the very best available.

As you can see in the photos, it is a factory standard car that has been treated to a deep and extensive restoration. The vendor describes it as ‘nut and bolt’ and it is hard to disagree. The work covered virtually every aspect of the car, from rebuilding the YBB red top engine to rebuilding and powder coating the suspension. The bodywork, paintwork and interior have also been refreshed.

Showing 92,000 miles on the odometer, this is a thoroughly restored Sierra RS Cosworth that should appeal to the most discerning of fast Ford enthusiasts. It is sold with a fresh MOT.

The vendor says:

“Here we have this stunning, totally standard 1986 Ford Sierra Cosworth in Moonstone Blue. This has undergone a full nut and bolt restoration, making it immaculate underneath as it is on top. You’d be hard pushed to find a cleaner example of this classic fast Ford.

“Every part of this car has had attention to detail. Bodywork is unmarked as you can imagine from a fresh restoration. Engine bay matches the rest of the car.”

History and Paperwork

• UK-market right-hand-drive car first registered in 1986
• Current keeper since December 2013
• Showing 92,000 miles on the odometer
• To be sold with a fresh MOT
• V5C present
• Eligible for Historic Vehicle status from 1st April 2027 based on first registration date

The Condition

• Full nut and bolt restoration completed
• Finished in popular Moonstone Blue metallic
• Vendor states that the bodywork presents very well
• Engine bay presented to the same standard as the exterior, per the vendor
• All five lattice alloy wheels refurbished
• Fitted with quality Dunlop tyres
• Underside as shown with evidence of extensive renovation work
• Standard factory interior has been extensively refurbished we are told
• Fabric Recaro sports front seats in very good order
• New headliner fitted and sunroof reflocked
• NOS floor mats and gear knob fitted
• Working factory stereo system
• Extensive use of NOS parts throughout
• High-quality OE parts used where NOS was unavailable

Beyond the car’s Cosworth-themed driving brilliance, much of the appeal of these 3dr cars is the looks. Moonstone Blue particularly suits the design, accenting that massive whale tale and working well with the polished lattice alloys. Inside the interior is largely stock Sierra, but with Recaro sports seats and luxury fittings like electric windows and a glass sunroof.

As you can clearly see in the photos, this car has been extensively restored and presents at a very high level.

The Mechanics

• 204bhp 1,993cc inline four-cylinder 16V turbocharged engine
• Five-speed manual transmission
• Full engine rebuild with internals to handle up to 450bhp, running in stock tune
• New engine loom
• New clutch kit
• Injectors overhauled
• New fuel pump and fuel tank
• All hoses and pipes replaced
• New belts, filters, and oils
• Every suspension component powder coated with all bushes and ball joints replaced
• Adjustable Koni shock absorbers fitted
• Complete braking system renewed at all four corners, including discs, pads, hoses, braided pipes, and ABS sensors
• New full standard exhaust system

This car arrives on sale fresh from what can only be described as a comprehensive mechanical overhaul. We’ve highlighted the details above, notably including a full rebuild of that 2L motor. The car is said to run and drive well and will be sold with a fresh 12 months MOT.

BEFORE YOU BUY

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