The Ford Sierra Turnier II 2.0i, produced between 1987 and 1993, represents a significant evolution in Ford of Europe’s mid-size family car lineup. The Sierra, intended as a modern replacement for the aging Taunus and Cortina, was a departure from traditional Ford designs, embracing a more aerodynamic and contemporary aesthetic. The Turnier II, specifically, is the station wagon (estate) variant, offering increased practicality and cargo space. While never 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 Volvo 240. It was a key player in Ford’s European sales success during the late 1980s and early 1990s, known for its robust build quality, relatively sporty handling, and affordability.
Ford Sierra Turnier II 2.0i: A Detailed Overview
The Sierra underwent a substantial redesign in 1987, resulting in the “Turnier II” designation. This facelift included revised bodywork, improved interior appointments, and refinements to the mechanical components. The 2.0i model, powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 115 horsepower, was a popular choice for buyers seeking a balance between performance and fuel economy. The Turnier II’s estate body style further enhanced its appeal to families and those requiring a versatile vehicle for both everyday transport and leisure activities.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Sierra Turnier II 2.0i lies the Ford N4A or N4I engine, a 1993cc, naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This powerplant delivered 115 horsepower, providing adequate performance for the time. While not a sports car by any means, the 2.0i offered a respectable level of acceleration and cruising ability. The engine was known for its durability and relatively simple maintenance requirements. Power was delivered to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, contributing to a driver-focused experience. The weight-to-power ratio of 10.3 kg/Hp (or 97.5 Hp/tonne) indicates a reasonably efficient vehicle for its era. The rear-wheel-drive configuration, while becoming less common in family cars by the late 1980s, provided a balanced driving experience and contributed to the Sierra’s relatively sporty handling characteristics.
Design & Features
The Sierra Turnier II’s design was a significant departure from the boxy aesthetics of its predecessors. The car featured a sleek, aerodynamic profile with a sloping roofline and integrated bumpers. The Turnier II estate variant extended this design language, offering a spacious and practical cargo area. The five-door configuration provided easy access for passengers and cargo alike. Inside, the Sierra offered a functional and comfortable cabin, although the interior design was relatively understated compared to some of its competitors. Features included basic instrumentation, cloth upholstery, and a steering rack and pinion system with hydraulic power steering. Safety features were typical for the late 1980s/early 1990s, including ventilated disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. The focus was on providing a reliable and affordable family vehicle, rather than cutting-edge technology or luxurious appointments.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Sierra |
| Generation | Sierra Turnier II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i (115 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1987 |
| End of production | 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp |
| Power | 115 Hp |
| Engine Model/Code | N4A, N4I |
| 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 |
| Kerb Weight | 1180 kg / 2601.45 lbs. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l / 15.85 US gal / 13.2 UK gal |
| Length | 4511 mm / 177.6 in. |
| Width | 1720 mm / 67.72 in. |
| Height | 1428 mm / 56.22 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 | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
The Ford Sierra Turnier II 2.0i, while not a groundbreaking vehicle in terms of innovation, was a highly competent and practical family car that enjoyed considerable success in Europe. Its blend of affordability, reliability, and reasonable performance made it a popular choice for buyers seeking a versatile and dependable vehicle. The Turnier II estate variant, in particular, offered a compelling combination of space, practicality, and style, cementing the Sierra’s place as a significant model in Ford’s history.
