1991 Ford Sierra Sapphire RS Cosworth

Registration: H21 COSChassis: WF0FXXGBBFLM78048Odometer: 33,000Transmission: ManualMOT: June 2027

Legendary 2.0-litre turbocharged Cosworth YB engine

Orignial lights and indicators included in the sale

Uprated to near 400BHP

Few performance cars of the late 1980s and early 1990s have developed quite the following enjoyed by the Ford Sierra RS Cosworth. Born from Ford's motorsport ambitions, the Cosworth became one of the defining performance cars of its generation, with the later Sapphire combining formidable turbocharged performance with four-door practicality. The introduction of four-wheel drive added another dimension, providing considerably greater ability to deploy the Cosworth's performance.

This 1991 Ford Sierra Sapphire RS Cosworth 4x4 is an especially purposeful example. Finished in metallic grey, retaining the unmistakable presence of Ford's celebrated performance saloon while benefiting from a number of modifications and upgrades.

Under the bonnet sits the legendary 2.0-litre turbocharged Cosworth YB engine, driving all four wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox. The vendor advises that the car has been uprated to approximately 400bhp, with a number of performance modifications evident within the engine bay, including upgraded induction and cooling components, silicone pipework and a substantial strut brace.

Its appearance is further enhanced by a set of Escort Cosworth alloy wheels, which the vendor advises were purchased new in 2025 at a cost of approximately £2,000. Combined with the lowered, purposeful stance of the car, they give this Sapphire a particularly aggressive appearance.

A number of original components have sensibly been retained. The car's original lights and indicators accompany the vehicle and are located in the boot, providing the next owner with the opportunity to reinstate them should a more original appearance be preferred.

Externally, the Cosworth presents well overall. Its Flint Grey paintwork retains a good shine, while the familiar bonnet vents, deep front and rear bumpers and prominent rear spoiler leave little doubt as to the car's performance credentials. As the photographs illustrate, there are some age-related marks and cosmetic imperfections present, including minor paint blemishes.

Inside, the Sapphire retains the wonderfully purposeful character associated with Ford's performance cars of this period. The cabin features black leather sports seats with substantial bolstering, together with an RS three-spoke steering wheel. The leather displays age-related creasing and wear, most noticeably around the driver's seat bolster, while the remainder of the cabin presents as an attractive and largely period environment.

The odometer currently displays approximately 33,000 miles. However, the total mileage of the vehicle cannot be verified and the displayed figure should not be regarded as confirmation of the car's total mileage travelled. There is also a mileage discrepancy within the historic MOT record dating from 2008. The vendor advises that this resulted from an incorrectly recorded mileage which was not noticed until it was too late to have the entry amended. Given the available information and age of the vehicle, the auctioneers therefore make no representation as to the accuracy of the displayed mileage.

A small collection of paperwork accompanies the car, documenting elements of its history and maintenance.

For many enthusiasts, the appeal of the Sierra Cosworth has always extended beyond completely standard examples. These cars became synonymous with the tuning scene of the 1990s and 2000s, and this particular Sapphire very much represents that side of Cosworth ownership. With approximately 400bhp claimed, four-wheel drive and a five-speed manual gearbox, it promises performance considerably beyond that of a standard example.

Presented with the particularly appropriate H21 COS registration, Escort Cosworth wheels, retained original lighting components and an MOT through to June 2027, this is a striking and suitably purposeful example of one of Ford's most celebrated modern performance classics.