Few performance Fords define an era quite like the Sierra Sapphire RS Cosworth.
For many enthusiasts who grew up in the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Cosworth badge represented the ultimate Ford. While the earlier three-door model often grabs the headlines, the Sapphire combined the same turbocharged performance with a more discreet four-door body, creating one of the most usable fast Fords of its generation.
This particular example crossed the block at Anglia Car Auctions during their April 2026 classic sale.
Registered in March 1991, the white Ford Sierra Sapphire 4×4 RS Cosworth was offered showing 55,218 miles and carrying an advisory-free MoT through to March 2027. According to the auction listing, MoT inspections have been carried out almost annually throughout the last decade, with the most recent nine tests all being passed without advisories.
The history file appears to have been a major attraction. Anglia Car Auctions noted that the car came with a substantial collection of maintenance invoices documenting significant expenditure over recent years. Work carried out included new brake discs and pads, replacement brake lines, a full service including timing belt replacement, new wishbones, coolant hoses and fuel lines.
Supporting paperwork included MoT certificates stretching back to 1994, tax discs, original Ford owner’s manuals and previous V5 documents. The V5 recorded four former keepers.
The auction house also noted that the engine had been remapped at some point in its life and that the vendor felt it would benefit from a tune-up due to slightly lumpy running. Despite that, he described the Cosworth as a “dream car” and had used it primarily for shows since purchasing it two years earlier.
With relatively low mileage, extensive documentation and evidence of continued maintenance, it represented exactly the sort of usable Cosworth that continues to attract interest from collectors and enthusiasts alike.
When bidding concluded, the Sierra Sapphire RS Cosworth sold for £23,490 including buyer’s premium, landing almost exactly in the middle of its £22,000-£24,000 estimate.
Considering the condition, mileage and history file, many enthusiasts will likely regard that as strong value in today’s market.
Would you have been tempted at £23,490?
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If you’re thinking of selling a vehicle, whether it’s a complete classic, an unfinished restoration or something that’s been tucked away for years, get in touch with UK Barn Finds.
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