1987 Ford Sierra Cosworth 'Group N' FIA HTP

HTP

To be offered by Iconic Auctioneers on Saturday 24th February at the Race Retro Sale.

Guide Price: £40,000 - £50,000

At its introduction in 1982, the Sierra's revolutionary new shape proved a touch more divisive than Ford had anticipated, and some serious marketing became a priority, so it was the obvious choice to become the platform for Ford's new competition aspirations in conjunction with Cosworth. It fitted the brief well as it was rear-wheel drive, had good aerodynamics, albeit being prone to lift at high speeds, and was available as a three-door. The new body kit and rear spoiler would sort out the lift issues but, more importantly, Ford still needed to build 5,000 units for homologation, somewhat worrying when the company's initial approach to the dealer network came back with an estimate that suggested they could sell around 1,500 units! The 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 three door, Sapphire two-wheel drive and four wheel-drive).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, impressively original, Sierra RS Cosworth raced competitively in the Italian Touring Car Production Series to 'Group N' specification in 1987/88/89. It was built by the very experienced race car builder, Elio Gotti of Gotti Racing, who purchased ten LHD Motorsport shells from Ford and specified that they were finished to standard road car specification as was the FIA ruling relating to the Group N/Production European Series. They incorporated a number of subtle modifications learnt from preparing successful Group A Sierras and rally cars.

The YB engine and T5 gearbox have only covered around 700 km since being rebuilt by Oppliger Motorsport, the 7.5” differential and the suspension have also been rebuilt and the whole car has recently been sympathetically restored by the renowned historic touring car specialists, Bury St. Edmonds-based Premier Motorsport. It’s supplied with all safety equipment in date including the Corbeau Seat, belts and new fire extinguisher and is on the button. This Sierra has benefited from spending its whole life as a race car and as such is in great condition.

The car has current FIA HTP papers and is eligible for a plethora of events from track days all the way through to International Touring Cars and represents a great opportunity to race a turbo saloon that defined the late eighties at a fraction of 'Group A' costs. Sierra Cosworths, of every iteration, appear to be defying any recent value corrections and would seem to be a sensible investment.