1988 Ford Sierra Cosworth RS500

500 versions of the Ford Sierra RS Cosworth were needed to homologate the "Evolution" model in British and European Touring car racing. They were all converted by Tickford Engineering (this being number 455 out of 500) and featured a more powerful 224bhp engine as well as many aerodynamic tweaks to the bodywork which included much larger spoilers and cooling ducts front and rear.

This particular car is very special indeed. Discovered by Joe Macari whilst visiting a significant Ferrari collection in Germany in 2007, he returned with the car and registered it to himself before finally selling, for what was then the very significant sum of £28,000, to a private Ford collector. As one of just 56 cars ever made in White, and with the very low mileage of just 5,300 when Joe sold it, the car was almost certainly unique.

Since then it has been a part of a private collection covering very little mileage. In September 2014 it was sent to highly respected Ford specialists, Tremona Garage in Southampton, for a £4,000 service which included all fluids, belts and a new battery. The mileage today is just a little over 6,000 and the car remains untouched. Recently it has been a part of a significant private collection and professionally stored in an indoor heated and dehumidified facility.

Over the years so many Sierra Cosworths have had modifications or upgrades to various parts, usually engine, suspension or brakes, however, this particular car is extraordinarily original and described by the highly respected RS500 Registrar, Paul Linfoot, as one of "the most original and best available RS 500s" in the world today. "How many RS 500s are left with such low mileage?" is the question he asked. Very few, if any, is our considered answer, particularly in this well-preserved state. The comprehensive history file will be available to inspect at the Sale and the car will have a fresh MOT beforehand. Silverstone Auctions were recently privileged to sell a very similar car (with almost twice this mileage) for a figure in excess of today's guide, so we feel that this remarkable car represents good value.