Back in the 1980s, few people would have predicted that a Ford Sierra would ever sell for six figures. But that’s exactly what seems set to happen when a 1988 Ford Sierra Cosworth RS500 goes under the hammer at the NEC Classic Motor Show on 11-12 November.
The incredible 224bhp super saloon is one of just 500 examples built to homologate the model for the British and European Touring Car Championships, and one of only 56 that were delivered in white.
As well as being incredibly rare, the RS500 is in remarkable, box-fresh condition, having spent a considerable time in private collections. Incredibly, it’s got just 6000 miles on the clock and has been described by RS500 registrar Paul Linfoot as being one of the most original and best available RS500s in the world today.
The car is completely original and unmodified, with the only work carried out being a major service in 2014, where the engine’s belts, battery and fluids were replaced.
Silverstone Auctions has estimated the Sierra at £100,000-115,000, but this could easily be eclipsed. A similar car from 1987 set a new world record when it sold for £115,000 earlier this year, but that example had covered twice the miles.
“Very few of us have ever come across one of these in such a well-preserved state with such low mileage,” said Nick Whale of Silverstone Auctions. “The Sierra Cosworth RS500 is truly the car of the moment among collectors, and this is the best example I’ve ever seen.”
Greg MacLeman is a contributor to and former Features Editor of Classic & Sports Car, and drives a restored and uprated 1974 Triumph 2500TC
