This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, Online Auction - 28th August on Thursday the 28th of August. Background:
Launched in January 1990, the third generation Sierra RS Cosworth arrived with four-wheel drive, marking a new chapter in Ford’s performance line up. The idea had been in discussion since 1987, with Ford Motorsport and Mike Moreton eyeing a rally-ready model to challenge in the World Rally Championship. However, the project was delayed until late 1989 when the crucial Ferguson MT75 gearbox became available. Hopes for a stripped back, three-door 'Motorsport Special' were shelved in favour of a more discreet four-door version, deemed to have greater market appeal and launched alongside the facelifted Sierra range.
The extra development time allowed Ford to refine the car extensively. Bonnet louvres returned, 80% of engine parts were revised and power was boosted to offset the 100kg weight gain from four-wheel drive and additional equipment. Praised on release, the 4x4 Cosworth remained in production until 1992, when it was succeeded not by the Mondeo, but by the Escort RS Cosworth — a model sharing its platform but designed for greater rally competitiveness.
Entering selected events in 1990 before tackling full WRC seasons in 1991 and 1992. Despite podiums for drivers like François Delecour and Massimo Biasion, including a second-place finish in Portugal, the car never claimed a WRC win. By late 1992, Ford had shifted focus to the Escort Cosworth, though the Sierra 4x4 remained a formidable force in national rallying and continues to be popular among amateur competitors today.
The Car:
The example offered here
Service History:
Service – 2,342 km – 14/08/1990
Service – 26,726 km – 18/05/1994
Service – 41,583 km – 16/08/1995
Service – 54,375 km – 12/08/1996
Service – 62,376 km – 02/07/1998
Service – 70,312 km – 23/09/1999
Service – 82,951 km – 11/04/2001
Service – 96,823 km – 09/04/2003
Service – 110,930 km – 17/05/2006
Service – 123,511 km – 29/04/2008
Service – 130,334 km – 14/05/2009
Service – 142,018 km – 05/04/2011
Service – 156,197 km – 17/09/2015
Service – 159,911 km – 28/08/2024
Service – 166,270 km – 02/07/2025
Location: Switzerland
Seller: Trade
Photography: Professional
