1987 Ford Sierra Cosworth RS500

Disappointingly slow sales of the distinctively shaped Ford Sierra after its introduction in 1982, suggested that a serious marketing boost was required, and it was the obvious choice to become the platform for Ford's new competition aspirations. It was rear-wheel drive, had good aerodynamics, albeit being prone to lift at high speeds and it was available as a three-door. A wind-tunnel developed body kit and rear spoiler would sort out the lift issues but, more importantly, Ford still needed to build 5,000 units for motorsport homologation, somewhat worrying when Stuart Turner's initial approach to the dealer network came back with an estimate that indicated that they could sell around 1,500 units! The successful eventual sales record is of course history. Ford went on to sell 5,545 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 best expectations and it went on to become one of the most successful 'Touring Car' racers of all time, winning races all over the world. This, very special, 1987 RS500 (No 387) has covered less than 11,000 miles and has enjoyed a very quiet life for the last 26 years. Number 387, went to Tickford on the 21st July 1987 with 8 miles on the clock, exiting on the 28th July 1987 with 22 miles indicated. It was supplied initially by Haynes of Maidstone to its first keeper, a very proud Mr. K P Souter, a local businessman who ran the Cosworth for 13 months. It then became the property of one of the world's wealthiest men who had extensive business interests in Ireland and India and he and his family used this particular car only very occasionally when they were staying at his English country estate, although it was to remain in his ownership for the next 29 years. The family ran the car for three years before parking it in one of their estate garages in late 1991, where it remained untouched for some 26 years. During their tenure, the car was MOT"d on the 12th September 1991 with a recorded mileage of 10,067. The second chapter in this RS500's life began in April 2017 when it was rescued by Cosworth specialist John Taylor who was tasked with returning the car to its best. This work included a comprehensive engine service with all fluids and belts changed (original belts retained and boxed), a full flush of the fuel system, as well as a thorough brake service. The only items that have been changed are the front and rear brake discs and pads (original items retained) for safety purposes, the fuel tank (sediment from old fuel evaporation), and a new battery. The vehicle has also been independently checked and MOT"d prior to being offered for auction.The focus of John Taylor's recommissioning was to present the car in its original unrestored condition, whilst being mechanically sound. All the glass is correct and both dated (1986) and etched with the vehicle's registration number. All panels are also original, as are the wheels still wearing their original Dunlop D40s and knock-on wheel weights from new, the spare wheel having never been used still showing its original manufacturing marks. We understand that the electrics work fully, and the engine runs sweetly.The interior is in excellent condition. The dashboard and door cards are unmarked with no evidence of cracking, the steering wheel still shows its original white stitching, and the seatbelts with vibrant red push buttons have not faded. The boot appears never to have been used. Service history with the car includes the 1,500-mile service carried out by Haynes of Maidstone at the recorded mileage of 817on the 9th November 1987 and the service sheet remains with the service book detailing the checks undertaken at the time. The next service was carried out by MJA Auto Group on the 24th October 1988 at a recorded mileage of 4,428. Within the cars history file are the 'Ford Safety' recall documentation, all driver's handbooks presented in the original Haynes white folder, copies of the DVLA paperwork from first registration to current date, along with a parking ticket dated 2nd June 1990 issued by Surrey Constabulary, a period 'International Driving Permit' for its famous owner, an insurance cover note from 1988, and two old tax discs. Sporty cars of the Eighties and Nineties are becoming increasingly sought after and are some of the fastest appreciating classics in the current market, with the appetite for well kept, low volume Fords, in particular, showing no signs of abating. Now offered for sale for effectively the first time, this lovely Cosworth RS500 is about as close to original as you will ever find and is an absolute must for the astute collector and enthusiast, as well as being tremendous fun to drive.