***Vendor supplied images***
Highlights
- Rare XR4i with Cosworth 24V 2.9litre 206bhp motor
- Very original interior in great condition
- Solid and very presentable car ideal for light restoration
- These 80s Fast Fords are getting rare and hard to find
The Appeal
The 80s were a busy time for Fast Ford fanatics. With the imminent demise of the much-loved Capri, Ford needed a replacement. Then there was the XR3, selling out of showrooms faster than hot cakes.
Cue the XR4i, a car designed to be a big brother to the XR3 and fill the gap left by the Capri. With twin rear spoilers and similar running gear to the Capri, including the burbly 2.8litre Cologne V6, it ticked a lot of boxes.
This 1984 XR4i has been tastefully improved to address one of the criticisms of the standard car - its relatively low power. Equipped with a 2.9litre 24v Cosworth Ford V6 it certainly does that. Solid and with a very original interior it looks like a straightforward project for any Fast Ford or hot hatch enthusiast of these rare cars.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered 21st December 1984
- Chassis records confirm that this is a Genk built 1984 Sierra
- Current owner since 2003
- History file of old MOTs verifying mileage
- MOT expired 22nd August 2019 and has only covered 750 miles since last test
- Treated to a three stage wax polish by the vendor prior to sale
The Interior
- Very original and standard grey cloth interior in good condition
- Classic Sierra dashboard angled towards dashboard
- Switchgear carefully positioned in driver’s sight line, like a Saab
- Some light wear visible on the driver’s bolster
- Loosening of fabric on rear seats
- Door cards original and in good condition, driver’s side with small crack in trim
- Electric windows and electric remote mirrors
- Sunroof with manual operation
- Gear knob original but lightly cracked
- Smiths auxiliary dials fitted to centre console for oil temperature and pressure and battery condition
- Period correct Blaupunkt radio
- Illuminated vanity mirrors
The Exterior
- Innovative ‘Frankenstein’ bodyshell using components from 5dr and 3dr Sierras
- Designed by Peter Horbury of Volvo and Lotus fame (RIP)
- Distinctive white XR4 finish with contrasting black trim
- Solid and presentable bodywork with scope for light or running improvements
- Attractive Scorpio 16inch alloy wheels generally good with some kerbing to each rim
- A posts on both sides showing some signs of surface corrosion
- Underside appears solid with good floors and sills showing only surface corrosion
- Small area of surface rust on nearside front wing
- Auxiliary door lock on driver’s door
- Some touched-in chips on edge of driver’s door
- Headlamp protectors
- Tow bar
- Surface corrosion around boot aperture
- Iconic twin rear spoilers
- Red front bumper trim deteriorated
- XR4 Cosworth rear badges
The Mechanics
- Originally factory supplied with 2.8litre 148bhp fuel injected Cologne V6
- Now fitted with 2.9litre version of this engine with 24V Cosworth modifications
- This engine delivers 206bhp and 207lbft torque, more than a standard Sierra Cosworth
- Engine is taken from a Ford Scorpio but we do not know the provenance
- We do not know when the engine conversion was carried out
- Equipped with Megasquirt fuel injection system
- Sierras used tried and tested Mk5 Cortina RWD running gear
Summary
The XR4i, with its iconic twin rear spoilers, certainly looked the part. Buyers in period bemoaned its relative lack of power so, as with many Fast Fords, enthusiasts have found ways to improve them. This standard-looking XR4i hides a secret - it has power to trump a factory-built Sierra Cosworth.
Solid and presentable with a very original interior in good condition it is the basis for what seems to be a light running restoration. Once done it is sure to be a very rewarding classic and a talking point at shows.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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