1987 Ford Sierra RS500 Cosworth (#184/500)

The original Ford Sierra RS Cosworth was the first Ford to wear the Cosworth badge and was presented to the public at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1985. It was introduced as a means of homologating the Sierra for 'Group A' Touring Car racing, with a requirement that 5,000 cars were built and sold. Launched for sale in July 1986 and based on the three-door Sierra body-shell, it was designed by Ford's Special Vehicle Engineering (SVE) and was powered by a Cosworth-designed 2-litre turbo engine of now legendary repute.

In total 5,545 cars were produced, of which 500 were sent to Aston Martin Tickford for conversion to the Sierra RS500 Cosworth. Once Ford had built the requisite 5,000 RS Cosworths, 'Group A' rules allowed an upgraded 'evolution' model to be launched. This could carry changes focused on improving its racing potential, provided Ford sold 10% of the original number as road cars, hence the 500. The RS500 was announced in July 1987 and had a mechanically uprated Cosworth engine (more similar to the one to be used in competition), with power boosted to 224bhp, upgraded brakes, modified bodywork and the cachet of being hand-assembled. The vast majority (392) were finished in Black, 56 in Diamond White and 52 in Moonstone Blue.

Finished in black with a grey Recaro interior, this particular 1987 Ford Sierra RS500, #184/500, is in outstanding condition throughout and had covered a believed genuine mileage of just 52,057 at the time of viewing. Externally, as can be seen from our images, the car presents superbly and whilst there may have been minor paint rectification over the years, it is almost impossible to say where, given the standard of finish. With an original interior and a fully detailed engine bay we suggest that this RS500 will be welcome within any Ford Collection given that it has clearly led a cherished life, evidenced by recent works carried out to keep it on its toes including a new Garrett Turbo, replacement cambelt and tensioner, new steering rack, a replacement fuel tank and all the general service items that need regular attention on a vehicle of this nature.

Pleasingly, it should be noted that the registration number, A500 MAG, was assigned to the vehicle in March 1990 and is seemingly an important part of its history, so consequently it will remain on the vehicle and forms part of the sale. With the Performance Ford market remaining as strong as ever and with the RS500 being top of that list, we strongly advise your early inspection of this impressive example. A rare opportunity to join the small and exclusive club of RS500 ownership at what we believe is a very sensible guide.