The Ford Sierra Turnier II 1.8 (80 Hp) represents a significant evolution in Ford of Europe’s family car lineup. Produced between 1987 and 1988, this station wagon, known as an estate in many markets, was part of the second generation of the Sierra, a model designed to replace the aging Taunus and Cortina. The Turnier II specifically offered increased practicality and space compared to the earlier Sierra models, catering to families and those requiring substantial cargo capacity. While not officially sold in the United States, the Sierra was a hugely popular vehicle in Europe, competing with models like the Vauxhall/Opel Astra Estate, Volkswagen Passat Variant, and Renault 21 Estate. It marked a shift towards more aerodynamic and modern designs within the Ford range, and the Turnier II, with its enhanced practicality, solidified the Sierra’s position as a versatile and well-regarded vehicle.
Ford Sierra Turnier II 1.8: A Detailed Overview
The Sierra Turnier II 1.8 was positioned as a mid-range offering within the Turnier lineup. It provided a balance between affordability, fuel economy, and usable performance. The “Turnier” designation itself is a German word meaning “tournament,” reflecting the car’s ability to handle a variety of tasks and “compete” in the family car segment. The 1.8-liter engine option was a popular choice, offering sufficient power for everyday driving and long journeys, while remaining relatively economical. The car’s design emphasized practicality, with a large, square cargo area and a rear suspension system designed to handle heavier loads. The Sierra, in general, was a departure from Ford’s traditionally boxy designs, embracing a more streamlined and aerodynamic profile, a trend that continued throughout the 1980s.
Engine & Performance
The Ford Sierra Turnier II 1.8 was powered by Ford’s RED or REF engine, a 1.8-liter naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produced 80 horsepower, which, while modest by modern standards, was adequate for the vehicle’s intended purpose. The engine’s relatively simple design contributed to its reliability and ease of maintenance. Power was delivered to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, providing drivers with a reasonable degree of control over the vehicle’s performance. The weight-to-power ratio of 14.8 kg/Hp (or 67.8 Hp/tonne) meant that acceleration was not particularly brisk, but the engine offered sufficient torque for comfortable cruising and overtaking. The engine required 3.8 liters (4.02 US quarts, 3.34 UK quarts) of engine oil and 8 liters (8.45 US quarts, 7.04 UK quarts) of coolant for optimal operation. The rear-wheel-drive configuration, while becoming less common in family cars at the time, provided a balanced driving experience and contributed to the vehicle’s handling characteristics.
Design & Features
The Sierra Turnier II was a five-door station wagon, offering seating for five passengers. Its body style prioritized practicality, with a large, rectangular cargo area accessible through a rear tailgate. The design of the Turnier II was characterized by its relatively clean lines and aerodynamic profile, a significant departure from the more angular designs of previous Ford models. The interior was functional and straightforward, with durable materials and a focus on usability. While not lavishly equipped by modern standards, the Turnier II offered essential features such as comfortable seating, a reasonably sized glovebox, and a basic instrument cluster. Safety features were relatively limited compared to contemporary vehicles, reflecting the standards of the late 1980s. However, the car did feature ventilated disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear, providing adequate stopping power. The steering system utilized a steering rack and pinion, offering precise and responsive handling. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4511 mm (177.6 in) in length, 1720 mm (67.72 in) in width, and 1425 mm (56.1 in) in height – provided ample space for both passengers and cargo.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Sierra |
| Generation | Sierra Turnier II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 (80 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1987 |
| End of production | 1988 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.8 kg/Hp |
| Hp/tonne | 67.8 Hp/tonne |
| Power | 80 Hp |
| Engine Model/Code | RED, REF |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 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 | 1425 mm (56.1 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2608 mm (102.68 in) |
| Front track | 1452 mm (57.17 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1468 mm (57.8 in) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10 m (32.81 ft) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
The Ford Sierra Turnier II 1.8 (80 Hp) remains a fondly remembered vehicle in Europe, representing a practical and reliable choice for families during the late 1980s. Its blend of affordability, space, and reasonable performance made it a popular choice, and its design marked a significant step forward for Ford of Europe. While not a performance car, the Turnier II offered a comfortable and capable driving experience, solidifying its place in automotive history.
