Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Performance Hatchback/Saloon/Estate
Key Rivals:
Volkswagen Golf GTI, Vauxhall Astra GTE/Cavalier GSi, Peugeot 309 GTI, Renault 19 16V, Opel Kadett GSI
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its sophisticated multi-link rear suspension, RWD bias (later AWD options), and engaging handling
Rs Variants:
Focus on performance variants like the RS Cosworth, featuring potent Cosworth YB engines
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain (FWD/AWD)
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Ignition, Starting, Charging, Instruments, Accessories
Body:
Bodywork, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Glass, HVAC
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Charts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting
Repair:
Component Removal, Installation, Rebuilding, Adjustment
Diagnostics:
Fault Code Interpretation, Component Testing
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics
Engine Family:
Ford CVH, Ford I4 (DOHC), Ford Cosworth YB
Notable Engines:
2.0L DOHC (Sierra XR4i, Ghia), 2.8L Cologne V6 (XR4x4), 2.9L Cologne V6 (XR4x4), 2.0L Cosworth YB Turbo (Sierra RS Cosworth)
Rs Cosworth Power:
225-230 PS (168-172 kW; 222-227 hp) for early RS500, later models ~220 PS
Xr4I Power:
Approx. 115-125 PS (86-93 kW; 113-123 hp)
Injection:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) across most variants, Carburetor on some early base models
Turbocharging:
Garrett T3/T03B turbocharger for RS Cosworth models
Gearbox:
5-speed Manual (e.g., Ford MT75, BorgWarner T5 for RS Cosworth)
Automatic:
3-speed or 4-speed Automatic (on certain non-performance variants)
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) standard, All-Wheel Drive (AWD) optional/standard on XR4x4 and RS Cosworth models
Crash Testing:
Limited official Euro NCAP ratings for this era; relied on national standards and internal testing.
Braking:
Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs (Upgrade to larger discs/calipers on RS models)
Restraints:
Seatbelts (3-point front, 2-point or 3-point rear depending on spec), optional seatbelt pretensioners
Structure:
Reinforced Safety Cell, Crumple Zones
Audio System:
Factory-installed radios with cassette players, optional CD players on later models. Basic speaker systems.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) became available as an option on higher trims and standard on certain performance variants (e.g., RS Cosworth).
Features:
Limited to basic vehicle functions; no modern connectivity features.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000-10,000 miles or 12 months (depending on engine type and oil used)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles (standard plugs), longer for iridium/platinum
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 40,000-60,000 miles or 4-5 years for CVH/DOHC engines (critical to avoid engine damage)
Engine Oil Grade:
e.g., 5W-30, 10W-40, 15W-40 (refer to manual for specific engine/climate)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Ford Orange/Yellow)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90, 80W-90)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mercon/Dexron II/III ATF
Rust:
Common areas include wheel arches, sills, floor pans, strut towers, and rear spring mounts.
Electrical:
Corrosion in connectors, aging wiring looms, issues with heater control panels, central locking (especially on later models).
Engine:
CVH engines can suffer from head gasket failures and oil leaks. Cosworth YB engines require diligent maintenance to prevent turbo or internal damage.
Suspension:
Wear in bushes (control arms, anti-roll bar), rear trailing arm bushes, and potential strut top bearing issues.
Exhaust:
Corrosion and failure of exhaust components, especially in older vehicles.
Manufacturer:
Ford Motor Company
Generation 1:
1982-1985 (Mk1 Sierra, introduction of aerodynamic styling and multi-link rear suspension)
Generation 2:
1985-1993 (Mk2 Sierra, facelift with revised interior, dashboard, front-end styling, and introduction of RS Cosworth)
Generation 3:
1993-1996 (Mk3 Sierra/Sierra Sapphire, final facelift with 'aero' headlights, revised bumpers, and interior upgrades)
Manufacturing Locations:
Genk (Belgium), Halewood (UK), Saarlouis (Germany)
Production Volume:
Over 2.7 million units produced globally
