1990 Ford Sierra Sapphire 2.0 i Ghia Automatic
(Featured on 10th December 2010)
Make: Ford
Model: Sierra
Year: 1990
Registration: H239 Y0U
Sellers original description:
The Ford Sierra - Man and Machine in Perfect Harmony......... so went the advert in the '80s when the first generation of Sierra came out. Then the second generation came along and brought with it smoother lines, more cohesive styling inside and out, and more refined engines and gearboxes. Also, of course this was when the long awaited 4 door saloon arrived, the Sapphire.
Whilst there are a number of desirable and expensive Cosworth models still surviving, and a handful of basic or low spec models, such as the Classic, Azura, L, LX still around, but precious few higher specs, like the Ghia and 2000E.
What we have here is a good example of "Ford gives you More" - a 1990 Sierra Sapphire Ghia with the more powerful fuel injected 2.0 double overhead cam engine mated to the 4 speed auto box. This example has been owned by the same family from new, and I have a pile of receipts from day one, including the original bill of sale. The original owners handbook is present, although the service book has gone missing, but this is easily out-weighed by the amount of invoices and receipts. I also have a Ford brochure of the same period detailing the car, with the illustration even being in the same colour - mercury grey, with shadow "apollo" trim.
It is something of a barn find, having been stored off the road for a number of years and has just recently been recommisioned.
It is in absolutely stunning condition throughout, and I am quite sure is worthy of showing or collecting. It is of course a perfectly useable classic, but really is in my opinion, far too good for that. The pictures hardly do it justice but it is like getting into a 2 year old car. The interior is like new and everything works just as it should, including the original stereo - the 2007 electronic stereo sound system with seperate power amplifier!
The exterior coachwork is rust free as you can see from the photos, including all the arches before you ask! There are a couple of small dings in the bootlid and the front and rear bumpers both have cracks which could probably be smart repaired. Otherwise the exterior is pretty much perfect! The MOT examiner commented that it was "ridiculously up-together". Talking of which, it just flew through the MOT with no advisories, not bad after 20 years and a few years of storage. After a good service, a new battery and 2 tyres (the old ones were showing their age) it now drives like a couple of years old. Everything still feels tight, rattle free and smooth. The engine is quiet, smooth and responsive (no smoke), the gearbox changes smoothly and kicks down when required and the ride is unbelievably comfortable. I had forgotten how the modern trend for sporty handling had abandoned decent suspension. It is nice to be in a car that rides properly over bumps for a change, although it still feels surprisingly modern to drive with the assisted steering.
Anyway, the Sierra is superb. It must be the nicest surviving Ghia and far too good for the banger boys or a Cosworth donor. I would love to keep it but can only afford to run one car and this one is far too good for everyday use. It really needs someone who can continue to pamper it and maybe use it for Ford shows etc, or perhaps someone who used to own one, or maybe who remembers their Dad having one.
Photos:
