Prototype #1 1987 Sierra RS-500 Cosworth To Be Auctioned

[salukixr4ti]

Per BAT website this morning...

https://bringatrailer.com/2018/05/14/pr ... 2018-05-15


Prototype Number One: 1987 Ford Sierra RS500 Cosworth

This 1987 Ford Sierra RS500 Cosworth (VIN WFOEXXGBBEGG38771) is summarized as a genuine pre-production example of the high-performing, limited run Group A homologation special. The car is said to be the only RS500 built by Ford, as opposed to Tickford who handled the other 500 conversions. Factory upgrades over a standard Sierra RS Cosworth were numerous, with highlights including an upgraded Garrett T04 turbo, a strengthened block, enlarged intercooler, and enhanced oil and engine coolant systems, while cosmetic changes incorporated a redesigned front bumper and different rear spoiler setup. This example looks great throughout, and is one of the more special non-racer Sierra Cosworths we’ve seen in a while. Find it here on Silverstone Auctions, who will offer it for bidding on May 19th, 2018 at Silverstone Circuit in England. Pre-sale estimates range from 90k-120k GBP (~$122k-$163k USD today).

Though offered in three colors, the majority of RS500’s were finished in black, but there were also 52 Moonstone Blue and another 56 white examples as seen here. Just about everything in sight appears factory-unmodified for an RS500, including the unique rear wing design which features a center support post and an additional lower lip. The front bumper is the correct design which lacks fog lamps, the wheels are the proper alloy cross-lace design and even ride height seems to have been left untouched. Condition appears sharp, with consistent paint, good looking glass and un-etched lighting captured, while the plastics of the various aero pieces seems to be in nice shape as well.

The car reportedly suffered an accident when it was just a year old in 1988, but will be offered with a written inspection report by an individual represented by the seller as a “leading model expert,” and is further said to remain highly original. Common wear areas of the interior aren’t focused on in the provided photos, but upholstery follows the original pattern front and rear, and the upper portions of the front Recaros seem to show only moderate use. Other photos show the factory steering wheel, while it looks like the original tape deck and clock remain in place as well.

A member of the Cosworth YB engine series, the unit in the RS500 displaces the same 2.0 liters as the standard unit which produced 201 HP in stock, road-going form. Racing versions of those engines developed approximately 370 HP, but faced limited potential thanks to a smaller Garrett T3 turbocharger. Paired with a strengthened block built to withstand increased boost pressure, a Garrett T04 helped the RS500 produce 220 HP, with cars tuned to full racing spec making around 550.

[morlynon]

That prototype looks sexy and is a good investment for sure.