1985 Ford Sierra XR8 – South Africa’s V8 Legend

Built exclusively by Ford South Africa, the Sierra XR8 was created to meet Group 1 racing homologation rules, which required 200 road-going examples. The project earned full approval from Ford’s Special Vehicle Operations (SVO), with Bob Lutz, then Ford’s Executive Vice President, personally signing off the car at Aldo Scribante Raceway, even ordering one for himself and another for Ford’s world headquarters.

In total, around 252 cars were produced, each fitted with a 5.0-litre Windsor V8, Borg Warner T5 five-speed gearbox, and strengthened Granada differential. Stopping power came from AP Racing four-pot front brakes and modified ATE Porsche/Ferrari rear callipers, while 15-inch Ronal alloys completed the factory setup.

This example has been refurbished while remaining true to its factory specification. It now features a stainless-steel exhaust system, and invoices show over R50,000 spent in recent years, including a complete engine rebuild in 2023 with a 0.060″ rebore and fully refurbished cylinder heads. The original VIN and serial plates remain intact, confirming its authenticity as car RY00207.

Celebrated as one of South Africa’s most iconic performance cars, the XR8 combined American muscle with European handling, and for years, it was the fastest Sierra in the world until the arrival of the RS Cosworth. A true collectible piece of local motoring history with international appeal.