Ford Sierra RS Cosworth Sapphire
The executive-class 'Cossie' that traded the whaletail for a boot lid.
- Power
- 204 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.1 s
- Top speed
- 150 mph
- Est. value
- $23k–$75k
About the Ford Sierra RS Cosworth Sapphire
Introduced in 1988, the Sapphire RS Cosworth was the second iteration of the legendary Sierra Cosworth, moving the high-performance YB engine into a more discreet four-door saloon body. While it lacked the 'whaletail' spoiler of the original three-door, it offered improved aerodynamics and a more refined interior based on the Ghia trim. It retained the 204 PS turbocharged engine and rear-wheel-drive layout, making it a formidable performance car that could outpace contemporary rivals like the BMW M3 E30. Its combination of everyday practicality and sub-six-second potential made it a favourite for both enthusiasts and, notoriously, joyriders of the era.
Ford Sierra RS Cosworth Sapphire specs
The Ford Sierra RS Cosworth Sapphire produces 204 bhp (152 kW) and 276 Nm (204 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.1 seconds and has a top speed of 150 mph (241 km/h).
| Make | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | Sierra RS Cosworth |
| Generation | Sapphire |
| Trim | 2.0 Turbo |
| Years | 1988–1990 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 13,140 built |
| Engine | 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,993 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 204 bhp (152 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 276 Nm (204 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.1 s |
| Top speed | 150 mph (241 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,250 kg (2,756 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 163 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Ford Sierra RS Cosworth Sapphire worth?
A typical Ford Sierra RS Cosworth Sapphire is estimated to be worth $23,000 – $75,000 (about £17,000 – £56,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Ford Sierra RS Cosworth Sapphire rarity in CarSpot
The Ford Sierra RS Cosworth Sapphire is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 44 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Ford Sierra RS Cosworth Sapphire fun facts
- The Sapphire RS Cosworth was actually more aerodynamic than the original three-door model, achieving a drag coefficient of 0.33 compared to the original's 0.34.
- Ford was forced to order 15,000 engines from Cosworth for the original RS, but only used 5,000; the Sapphire was created partly to use up the remaining 10,000 units.
- The Borg-Warner T5 manual gearbox used in the Sapphire was a specially strengthened version of the unit found in the Ford Mustang.
