1989 Ford Sierra Sapphire GLSi review from UK and Ireland
"One and a half tones of Dagenham Pig iron that goes like a whippet but handles like a rhino on crack"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The fuel tank fell off the first time I filled it up due to acute corrosion on the mountings and fixings.
The rear wheel arches needed attention almost immediately, and with the harsh winter that followed, soon needed replacing.
Idle speed control valve is a little erratic and the gasket needs regular checking for air leaks.
The last MOT inspection revieled quite a few areas of underside body work that required welding.
This models major let down is its suspension, it proves sloppy and prone to excessive yawing. Handling suffers as a result along with sharp braking and acceleration.
General comments?
On the plus side, the addition of a filter charger to the inlet manifold on the throttle body makes throttle response razor sharp.
It has impressive acceleration for such a heavy car and will cruise quite happily at 120mph (on private roads).
Although quite thirsty around town, on the motor-way MPG will go into the mid thirties.
The interior on the standard model is a bit dull, but substitution for the Ghia spec makes a big difference.
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| 1988 - Sierra L Estate 1.6 petrol An extremely reliable workhorse |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1989 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 80595 miles |
| Most recent distance | 87962 miles |
| Previous car | Vauxhall Astra Mk2 |
| Date of Entry | 2nd April, 2001 |