DuelsLeaderboardGarageBlogCarsGlossaryBrowse

Ford Sierra Cosworth

Ford

Ford Sierra Cosworth: Ford Sierra RS Cosworth: The Whale-Tail Touring Car Legend
Photo: Calreyn88 / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

Ford Sierra RS Cosworth: The Whale-Tail Touring Car Legend

The Ford Sierra RS Cosworth was a turbocharged, Cosworth-engined homologation special built to dominate touring car racing and rallying, instantly recognizable by its bold rear wing.

Ford partnered with Cosworth to build a high-output turbocharged engine for the Sierra, then wrapped it in a homologation package, complete with the large rear wing, needed to qualify for touring car competition.

The Sierra RS Cosworth proved formidable on track, and the later RS500 version, with its distinctive whale-tail spoiler, pushed the formula even further, becoming one of the most dominant touring cars of its era.

Its combination of turbocharged performance, motorsport success, and unmistakable styling has made the Sierra RS Cosworth, especially the RS500, one of the most celebrated and collectible Fords of the 1980s.

Frequently asked questions about Ford Sierra Cosworth

Why does the Sierra RS Cosworth have such a large rear wing?
The rear wing was part of the homologation package, providing aerodynamic downforce needed for touring car racing.
Who built the Sierra RS Cosworth's engine?
Cosworth developed the turbocharged engine used in the Sierra RS Cosworth, giving it strong performance for its era.
What is the RS500?
The RS500 is an even more focused evolution of the Sierra RS Cosworth, built for homologation purposes and famous for its dominance in touring car racing.
Was the Sierra RS Cosworth successful in racing?
Yes, it and its RS500 derivative were highly successful in touring car competition through the late 1980s.
Why is the Sierra RS Cosworth collectible today?
Its motorsport success, turbocharged performance, and iconic styling have made it one of the most desirable classic Fords.

Other Ford models

BroncoBronco SportCrown VictoriaEdgeEscapeExpeditionExplorerF-150F-250F-350FairlaneFalcon
More Ford models