Ford Sierra Sapphire RS Cosworth

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Launched in 1986, the Ford Sierra RS Cosworth became an overnight sensation, sparking a frenzy of tooth-sucking headlines questioning the wisdom of selling Essex man a saloon car that was capable of more than twice the legal speed limit. 

The motorised equivalent of the hoodie, the 'Cossie' quickly gained the reputation of a latter day MkII Jag, capable of carrying five burly bank robbers and a boot full of swag away from the crime scene faster than the plod could catch them.

The first truly affordable supercar, it was powered by a Cosworth-developed 16-valve turbocharged 2-litre engine that had been some four years in development. Pumping out a bullet-proof 204bhp, it could hit 60 in 6.2 seconds on its way to a top speed of 149mph with brakes and handling to match. In 1988 it got faster still, the Sapphire version hitting 60 in 5.8 seconds and topping out at 151mph.

First registered in July 1989, this particular Sapphire has had just three owners from new, being owned by Ford dealers Sanfords of Saltash for the first year and by a Mr Pascoe for the next 11 years before the vendor acquired it in late 2001. Always kept garaged, the car is said to be in highly original condition with no evidence of any previous repairs or welding.

The 76,500 miles on the clock is said to be genuine and is partially backed up by old MOTs but sadly the early service history was lost when Mr Pascoe moved house. The current owner, a professional garage mechanic, has maintained the car religiously and has treated it to a new MOT, full service and new cam belt just prior to the auction.

Other recent work of note includes four new BF Goodrich tyres; refurbished alloy wheels; complete new Bosal exhaust system; new radiator and water pump; new alternator and battery; new front brake discs and pads, with new BF Goodrich brake hoses; poly-bushed front suspension; professionally installed turbo timer and Clifford alarm / immobiliser; door locks disconnected and guards fitted inside doors for extra security.

Said to be in very good and highly original condition throughout, it comes with two sets of keys and remotes and just needs a lucky fourth owner behind the wheel. Fast Fords from this era have become increasingly collectable of late and this unmolested example could prove a shrewd investment at the sensible guide price suggested today.