1984 Ford Sierra XR8

Lot details
Registration No: B950JNT
Chassis No: CSBAEY88885
Mot Expiry: None

The aerodynamic bodyshape of the October 1982 launched Ford Sierra caused quite a stir among traditionally conservative Cortina buyers but it was in terms of driver appeal, comfort and space efficiency light years ahead of its predecessor. Sporting models were quickly launched to boost the car's image among enthusiasts, the first being the May 1983 XR4i fitted with a 2.8 litre injected engine in a new 3-door bodyshell and distinctive 'bi-plane' rear spoiler. The XR4i was developed into the four-wheel drive XR4x4 in 1985 and of course the ultimate sporting Sierras were the RS Cosworth models first launched in 1986. However, one of the most exciting Sierra derivatives was never offered to the UK buyer as it originated from Ford's South African plant. Purely a homologation special, the 1984 XR8 looked on the surface like a 5-door version of the XR4i with identical bi-level spoiler but was very different under the skin. A 5.0 litre 302 cu in V8 from the Mustang GT was shoe-horned under the bonnet complete with a four-barrel Holley carburettor and other uprated components including AP front and Tevas rear brakes, Granada differential and twin cooling fans plus unique Ronal alloy wheels. Only 250 were built for homologation into South African saloon car racing and therefore survivors are rare, especially in the UK.

The XR8 for sale today is finished in white with a grey interior but the mileage shown on the odometer is not correct, the true figure believed by the vendor to be 'mid 30s'. This particular car has some technical modifications including the fitting of a 9" Cosworth limited slip differential and beam to cure the excessive wheelspin which was (not surprisingly for a 5.0 rear wheel drive car with 330 NM of torque) inherent in the design of the car. We are also told that this car has been fitted with nylon bushes in the modified suspension and uprated alloy wheels although the original alloys will be sold with car. Described by the vendor as 'good' with regard to engine, electrics, transmission, interior and wheels/tyres and with 'fine' bodywork and 'fairly good' paintwork we are told that the car will be MOT'd and taxed by the time of the sale. With its original right hand drive configuration this rare Sierra is ideal for use on UK roads as well as the possibility of competing in track days and club events.
Please Note: The photograph used is of a similar vehicle.

PLEASE NOTE: This vehicle does not have an MOT.