The Ford Sierra, launched in 1982, represented a significant departure from its predecessor, the Cortina. Designed to compete in the mid-size family car segment, the Sierra aimed for a more modern and aerodynamic profile. The Ford Sierra Hatchback II 2.0i (115 Hp) Automatic, produced from 1987 to 1993, was a key iteration of this model, offering a blend of performance and practicality. While not officially sold in the United States, the Sierra was a hugely popular vehicle in Europe, becoming a staple for families and fleet buyers alike. It marked a shift towards more contemporary automotive design and engineering for Ford of Europe.
The Ford Sierra: A European Success Story
The Sierra was Ford’s response to increasing competition in the European market from rivals like Opel (Vauxhall), Volkswagen, and Peugeot. It was a clean-sheet design, moving away from the traditional boxy shapes of the Cortina. The Sierra’s aerodynamic styling, though initially controversial, proved to be effective in reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency. The hatchback body style, particularly the five-door variant, offered increased versatility and practicality, appealing to a broader range of buyers. The Sierra underwent several revisions during its production run, with the ‘Series 2’ models, like the 2.0i Automatic, receiving notable improvements to interior quality and refinement.
Engine & Performance
The 2.0i variant of the Sierra Hatchback II was powered by Ford’s 2.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder engine. Designated with engine codes N4A or N4I, this powerplant produced 115 horsepower. While not a high-performance figure by modern standards, it provided adequate power for comfortable cruising and overtaking. The engine was paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, offering ease of use and convenience, particularly in urban driving conditions. The rear-wheel-drive configuration, a hallmark of Ford’s European models at the time, contributed to a balanced driving experience, although it could present challenges in slippery conditions. The engine’s naturally aspirated design meant a relatively linear power delivery, making it predictable and easy to control. The 2.0i engine was known for its reliability and relatively low maintenance costs, contributing to the Sierra’s overall appeal.
Design & Features
The Sierra Hatchback II featured a distinctive five-door hatchback body style, offering a spacious interior and a large cargo area. The design prioritized practicality, with a focus on maximizing interior space. The exterior styling, while modern for its time, was characterized by clean lines and a relatively understated appearance. The Series 2 models, including the 2.0i Automatic, received subtle cosmetic updates, such as revised grilles and bumpers, to enhance their visual appeal. Inside, the Sierra offered a functional and comfortable cabin, although the interior materials were generally modest. Features included comfortable seating for five passengers, a reasonably sized glovebox, and basic instrumentation. Safety features were relatively limited by today’s standards, but included seatbelts and a collapsible steering column. The Sierra’s design represented a significant step forward for Ford of Europe, offering a more modern and competitive package compared to its predecessor.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Sierra |
| Generation | Sierra Hatchback II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i (115 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1987 |
| End of production | 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| 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 |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l / 15.85 US gal / 13.2 UK gal |
| Length | 4425 mm / 174.21 in. |
| Width | 1694 mm / 66.69 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, Internal Combustion engine (ICE) |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
The Ford Sierra Hatchback II 2.0i Automatic, while not a performance icon, represented a well-rounded and practical family car for its time. Its blend of comfort, practicality, and reasonable performance made it a popular choice in the European market. The Sierra’s legacy extends beyond its sales figures; it paved the way for future Ford models and helped establish the company’s reputation for building reliable and well-engineered vehicles. It remains a fondly remembered car for many European drivers who experienced its blend of practicality and affordability during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
