The Ford Sierra Sedan II 2.0 (105 Hp) Automatic, produced between 1987 and 1993, represents a significant evolution in Ford of Europe’s mid-size offering. Replacing the aging Taunus and Cortina, the Sierra was a thoroughly modern design for its time, emphasizing aerodynamics and space efficiency. While not officially sold in the United States, the Sierra was a hugely popular vehicle in Europe, competing with models like the Opel/Vauxhall Vectra, Peugeot 405, and Fiat Tempra. The Sedan II variant, specifically the 2.0-liter automatic, aimed to provide a comfortable and practical family car with a reasonable level of performance. It was a key model in Ford’s lineup during a period of significant automotive development, bridging the gap between older, more traditional designs and the increasingly sophisticated vehicles of the 1990s.
The Ford Sierra Sedan II: A European Success Story
The Ford Sierra was a departure from its predecessors, adopting a more contemporary, aerodynamic shape. The initial Sierra, launched in 1982, was controversial due to its boxy styling, but the subsequent revisions, including the Sedan II introduced in 1987, addressed many of the criticisms. The Sedan II featured subtle styling updates and improvements to the interior and mechanical components. The 2.0-liter engine, paired with an automatic transmission, was a popular choice for buyers seeking a balance between fuel economy and drivability. The Sierra’s success stemmed from its spacious interior, practical design, and relatively affordable price point, making it a common sight on European roads for over a decade.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Sierra Sedan II 2.0 Automatic is a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter gasoline engine, designated as the N8C or NES engine code. This engine produced 105 horsepower, providing adequate performance for everyday driving. While not a sports car, the Sierra 2.0 offered sufficient power for comfortable cruising and overtaking. The four-speed automatic transmission delivered smooth gear changes, enhancing the driving experience. The rear-wheel-drive configuration was typical for European sedans of this era, offering a balanced driving feel. Performance figures were modest by modern standards, but the engine was known for its reliability and relatively low maintenance costs. The engine’s design prioritized fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for long journeys. The 2.0-liter engine was a mainstay of the Sierra range, offering a good compromise between power and economy.
Design & Features
The Ford Sierra Sedan II is a four-door, five-seater sedan. Its body style was a direct response to the growing demand for practical and spacious family cars in Europe. The design emphasized interior space, with a relatively long wheelbase and a well-optimized cabin layout. The Sedan II featured a more refined interior compared to the original Sierra, with improved materials and a more ergonomic dashboard design. Safety features, while limited by the standards of the time, included ventilated disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. The steering system utilized a rack and pinion setup, providing precise and responsive handling. The Sierra’s exterior design was characterized by clean lines and a relatively understated appearance. The car’s overall aesthetic was functional and practical, reflecting its intended role as a reliable and affordable family vehicle. Features like the fuel tank capacity of 60 liters (15.85 US gallons) were designed for long-distance travel, a common requirement for European drivers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Sierra |
| Generation | Sierra Sedan II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 (105 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1987 |
| End of production | 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 105 Hp |
| Engine Model/Code | N8C, NES |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4467 mm (175.87 in.) |
| Width | 1698 mm (66.85 in.) |
| Height | 1407 mm (55.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2608 mm (102.68 in.) |
| Front track | 1452 mm (57.17 in.) |
| Rear track | 1468 mm (57.8 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10 m (32.81 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
The Ford Sierra Sedan II 2.0 Automatic, while never officially available in the US market, remains a significant vehicle in the history of Ford of Europe. It represented a move towards more modern design principles and a greater emphasis on practicality and efficiency. Its enduring popularity in Europe is a testament to its well-rounded design and reliable performance. The Sierra paved the way for future Ford models and helped establish the company as a leading manufacturer of family cars in the European market. Its legacy continues to be appreciated by classic car enthusiasts and those who remember the Sierra as a common and dependable vehicle on the roads of Europe.
