1989 Ford Sierra LS review from UK and Ireland

Engine rebuild at 187,000 miles due to a cracked piston ring which caused excessive exhaust emissions.

The original clutch was replaced at the same time due to damage caused by a loose spring.

The ring gear was replaced at the same time (it had previously been replaced at 98,000 miles).

I had a lot of trouble with damp starting in the beginning, but replacing the cap, leads and non original coil with non Ford items cured the problem.

Unbeatable car. Very thirsty in city traffic, but extremely reliable, cheap and easy to repair when things go wrong.

For example, the engine rebuild, clutch and ring gear cost a total of £200. Use of good quality oil (15W40) every 3000 miles left the engine in excellent overall condition. Apart from a broken ring and a slightly worn cam lobe, the engine was perfect.

This car has had a tough life, lots of rough roads and towing, but I can't seem to break it. It's also a very safe car, as the Volvo driver that hit it found out.

I plan to replace it next year, but I doubt I'll get as good a car again.