Approx. 4200-4400 mm (165-173 in) depending on body style
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (67 in)
Height:
Approx. 1380-1430 mm (54-56 in) depending on body style
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1100-1300 kg (2425-2866 lbs) depending on model and specification
Rs Cosworth Curb Weight:
Approx. 1250 kg (2756 lbs)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data:
Limited official Euro NCAP data for this era; often based on contemporary consumer testing.
Active Features
ABS:
Optional on many models, standard on later RS Cosworth variants.
Traction Control:
Not typically available on 1985-1987 models.
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts, lap belts in rear (some models).
Crumple Zones:
Designed with front and rear crumple zones for energy absorption.
Roll Cage:
Internal roll cage structure for RS Cosworth models for chassis rigidity and safety.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio cassette players, often with optional upgraded speakers or amplifiers.
Digital Displays:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. No digital infotainment systems of the modern era.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Available as an option, providing enhanced braking stability.
Cruise Control:
Rarely fitted, typically an aftermarket or very late model option.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
None; vehicles of this era predate modern connectivity standards.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 km (12,000 miles) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 40,000 km (24,000 miles), check gap regularly.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 80,000 km (50,000 miles) or 5 years for OHC engines; Cosworth YB has a timing chain system (check manual for specific chain maintenance).
Fluid Specifications
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.0 - 8.0 liters (7.4 - 8.5 US qt) for the cooling system.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Ford specification power steering fluid or ATF Dexron II/III (check manual).
Known Issues
Rust:
Common rust points include wheel arches, sills, rear spring mounts, and around windows.
Cosworth Yb Engine Gaskets:
Head gasket failure, particularly on heavily modified or poorly maintained engines. Oil leaks from rocker cover and front/rear crank seals.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in control arm bushings, anti-roll bar bushes, and trailing arm bushings leading to imprecise handling.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring can degrade; issues with headlight motors, central locking, and intermittent dashboard warning lights are not uncommon.
Gearbox Selector:
Worn gearbox linkage bushes can result in vague gear selection.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Ford Performance Legacy:
Ford's long history in motorsport and performance road cars, including the Escort RS series.
Model Evolution
Sierra Introduction:
Introduced in 1982 as a replacement for the Ford Cortina/Taunus, featuring a distinctive aerodynamic shape and rear-wheel drive (later front-wheel drive on some variants).
Rs Cosworth Development:
Developed in conjunction with Cosworth, a legendary British motorsport engineering company, for Group A touring car homologation.
Rs Cosworth Variants:
Series 1 (1986-1987) featured RWD and the iconic 2.0L Cosworth YB engine; Series 2 and 3 followed with AWD and different styling cues.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Europe (e.g., West Germany, Belgium, UK)
Rs Cosworth Production Volume:
Approx. 5,545 units for the Series 1 RS Cosworth.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Motorsport Success:
The Sierra RS Cosworth achieved significant success in Group A touring car racing and rallying, solidifying its performance credentials.
Performance Car Acclaim:
Regularly featured in automotive magazines of the era for its handling, performance, and value proposition in the hot hatch/performance sedan market.
Collectible Status:
Highly sought-after modern classic, particularly the RS Cosworth variants, appreciated for their engineering and motorsport heritage.
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