Ford Sierra Hatchback 2.0i Ghia 5d (1987/D) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Cheap to buy, plenty of toys to play with, expect between 26-32mpg depending on how you drive it.
Costs
Dealer parts=cheap, pattern parts=even cheaper! Loads in breakers yards, so this is a great car to run on a shoestring. Simple, bulletproof mechanics mostly shared with previous Cortina. Insurers can take the mickey on the 2.0i, though, so shop around.
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On the road
Driving
RWD gives good balance and non-PAS car tells you what the front wheels are doing nicely. Not an exciting drive, but a nice one.
Performance
Lively by the standards of the day. 2.0i gives 115bhp and 120mph. Not earthshattering stuff, but useful. Handles tidily around lanes and is a relaxed motorway cruiser. 5-speed gearbox is a joy to use.
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Living with it
Reliability
Absolutely bombproof engine and gearbox. Drivetrain can trace lineage back to MkIV Cortina, possibly beyond, so very well proven. Make sure the idle air control valve is kept clean on EFi models. This car has NEVER broken down on me.
Image
Image? What image? Jelly-mould shape was controversial when launched, but looks dated now. This is a no-nonsense car for getting from A-B. That's it.
Comfort
Comfortable, fully adjustable seats (later ones have electric adjustment), plenty of leg room front and rear. Electrics all round (except sunroof). Front seats could do with more side support, though, as you tend to slide around in them in corners.
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Security and Service
Security
Central locking and Ford's fancy high security keys are standard, but any low-life with a coat hanger can help themselves. No alarm as standard on earlier cars, so make sure one is fitted.
Service
DIY servicing is so simple and parts are so widely available from factors that dealers are largely irrelevant. Service varies from dealer to dealer - many not interested in 18 year old cars! Independent specialists are a better bet.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Virtually unbreakable if properly serviced. Dirty idle air control valve on EFi engines can cause poor starting/idling.
Other
High security keys are made of soft metal and wear out. Replacements only available from dealers. Make sure you keep a spare in good condition.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes