1987 Ford Sierra RS 500 Cosworth

When Stuart Turner was appointed head of Ford Motorsport in Europe in 1983 he quickly came to the conclusion that the company was no longer competitive in motorsport. Walter Hayes, having instigated the Cosworth DFV engine and Fords assault on Le Mans with the GT40, was still the driving force at Ford. Not surprisingly, Hayes was enthusiastic about Turner's plans to produce a turbocharged Cosworth 2.0 litre engine that would power a Ford saloon in motorsport. Cosworth already had a cylinder head design that fitted the bill which used the Ford T88 Pinto block, so they agreed to produce the 2.0litre turbo engine providing that Ford signed-off a production run of 15,000 units.

The introduction of the Sierra in 1982 required a marketing boost so it was allocated to become the platform for Ford's new competition aspirations. It was rear wheel drive, it had good aerodynamics, albeit being prone to lift at high speeds and it was available as a three door. The new body kit and rear spoiler would sort out the lift issues. But Ford still needed to build 5000 units for homologation; this was somewhat worrying when Turner's initial approach to the dealer network came back with an estimate that suggested they could sell around 1500 units! The successful eventual sales record is of course history. Ford went on to sell 5545 three-door cars including the RS500, of which only 500 were built, and the Cosworth engine also found its way into nearly 30,000 Ford Sierra Saloons (Cosworth 3dr, Sapphire 2wd and 4wd). The Sierra Cosworth comfortably exceeded Ford's wishes and it went on to become one of the most successful Touring Car racers of all time, winning races all over the world.

This stunning Ford RS500 is finished in the ultimate colour combination of Black with standard grey Recaro Trim. It was first dispatched from the Ford factory in July 1987 and delivered to its first owner in the UK on 4th August of that year. With only 4 previous owners, the current vendor purchased the car from a fastidious RS Owner's Club member.

Tickford build number 247 has also benefited from an engine rebuild to standard specification by leading RS Specialist Bob Murray less than 400 miles ago. The car sits on original BBS alloys wheels that have been recently refurbished and is fitted with a factory sunroof. The bodywork and interior are in superb order and the paint retains a good shine. The engine bay is very clean and it's muscular 80's lines are a joy to behold.

There is a sizeable history file accompanying this car with bills and receipts for works completed and its all-important original service book, which helps substantiate the mileage of 45,000 miles. The subject of a recent service, this 80's icon has been lovingly stored in a heated environment by its owner, himself a collector of RS Fords. Original handbooks and catalogue are present in the history file and the service book has a total of 10 stamps. Supplied with a fresh MoT certificate, this imposing vehicle has clearly lived a cherished existence and we feel has excellent long-term investment potential.