Model Ranges
Probe III - Sierra Concept
1982
1987
1990
1992
RS Cosworth
Special Editions/Miscellaneous
Technical Guide
Brochure 'Cars 1990'
Gallery
Links
Guestbook
Email
Credits
In September 1982, Ford unveiled the Sierra at the Frankfurt Motor show. It was the long awaited replacement for the successful Cortina, which had been in production for over 20 years. Work on the Sierra began in the late 1970’s under the project code-name ‘Project Toni’ and was designed to be a versatile mid-size model, to fill the gap in the range between the Escort and the Granada, and to be simple and cheap to maintain and run. The Sierra was initially available with seven different engines and four different trim specs. At first it received a mixed reception because of its aerodynamic shape, designed to reduce the air drag coefficient to a minimum to improve fuel economy. To begin with the Sierra used the engines and gearboxes from the Cortina. These fell into two types, the OHC 'Pinto' and the OHV (Over-Head Valve) 'Cologne' V6. The 'Pinto' was first introduced in 1970 in the Mk.3 Cortina, and served in the Sierra right up to 1991. In late 1986 the 1300cc engine was phased out completely because it was never really suited to a car of the Sierra's size. With the 'Pinto' engine unable to meet the strict emission laws for the 90's, the 1.3 was followed by the 1.8 which was replaced by the American designed 1.8 CVH (Compound Valve angle Hemispherical combustion chambers). Next the 2.0 OHC 'Pinto' was replaced by the new Ford DOHC 8 valve (Double Over-Head Cam) in 1989. By this time, the 'Cologne' V6 engine was looking dated compared to the new Japanese engines. It was increased from 2.8 to 2.9 between 1987 and 1990, to give better low down torque. And finally the 1.6 'Pinto' was replaced at the end of 1991, with the introduction of the 1.6 CFi CVH. Production of the Sierra ended in late 1992, when it was replaced by the Mondeo with its 'Zetec' 16 valve engines. *This Website has no connection or relation with the Ford Motor Company*
