The Ford Sierra Turnier II 1.8 (90 Hp) represents a significant iteration in Ford of Europe’s mid-size family car lineage. Produced between 1987 and 1988, this variant of the Sierra, specifically the Turnier II estate (station wagon) model, offered a practical and relatively affordable option for families and those requiring substantial cargo space. The Sierra, as a whole, was a pivotal model for Ford, replacing the aging Cortina and Taunus ranges, and introducing a more modern, aerodynamic design. The Turnier II, with its increased practicality, further cemented the Sierra’s position as a versatile and popular vehicle in the European market. It was never officially sold in the United States, but understanding its specifications and role provides insight into the automotive landscape of late 1980s Europe.
The Ford Sierra Turnier II 1.8: A European Family Car
The Sierra Turnier II occupied a crucial segment in the European car market – the family estate. Unlike the American preference for larger, often rear-wheel drive wagons, the Sierra Turnier II aimed for a balance of practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It competed with vehicles like the Vauxhall/Opel Astra Estate, Volkswagen Passat Variant, and Peugeot 305 Break. The “Turnier” designation specifically denoted the estate body style within the Sierra range. The Sierra itself was a departure from Ford’s previous designs, embracing a more contemporary, boxy aesthetic that, while not universally praised at its launch, proved influential in subsequent automotive designs. The Turnier II, building on the Sierra’s foundation, provided a larger, more versatile cargo area, making it a popular choice for families and commercial users alike.
Engine & Performance
The 1.8-liter engine powering the Sierra Turnier II 1.8 produced 90 horsepower. This naturally aspirated engine, identified by the codes R2A and RED, was a mainstay of the Sierra range, offering a reasonable compromise between performance and fuel economy. While not a particularly powerful engine by modern standards, it provided adequate performance for typical family motoring in the late 1980s. The engine’s rear-wheel drive configuration was a defining characteristic of the Sierra, offering a different driving experience compared to the increasingly common front-wheel drive layouts. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to effectively manage the engine’s power and optimize fuel consumption. The weight-to-power ratio of 13.1 kg/Hp (or 76.3 Hp/tonne) reflects the car’s modest performance capabilities. 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.
Design & Features
The Sierra Turnier II’s body style is a five-door station wagon (estate). Its design prioritized practicality, with a large, square cargo area accessible through a rear tailgate. The interior offered seating for five passengers. While not lavishly equipped by today’s standards, the Turnier II provided essential features for its time. Safety features were relatively basic, reflecting the standards of the late 1980s. Ventilated disc brakes were fitted to the front wheels, providing adequate stopping power, while drum brakes were used on the rear. The car’s suspension was designed to provide a comfortable ride, balancing handling with practicality. The exterior design, while somewhat angular, was functional and aimed to maximize interior space. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4511 mm (177.6 in) in length, 1720 mm (67.72 in) in width, and 1428 mm (56.22 in) in height – positioned it squarely within the mid-size family car segment. The wheelbase measured 2608 mm (102.68 in), and the front and rear tracks were 1452 mm (57.17 in) and 1468 mm (57.8 in) respectively. The minimum turning circle was 10 meters (32.81 ft).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Sierra |
| Generation | Sierra Turnier II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1987 year |
| End of production | 1988 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.1 kg/Hp |
| Hp/tonne | 76.3 Hp/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp |
| Engine Model/Code | R2A, RED |
| 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 | 1428 mm / 56.22 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 |
The Ford Sierra Turnier II 1.8 (90 Hp) represents a practical and reliable vehicle from a significant era in European automotive history. While not a performance car, it offered a compelling combination of space, affordability, and reasonable fuel economy, making it a popular choice for families and those needing a versatile vehicle. Its rear-wheel drive layout and relatively simple mechanicals provide a driving experience distinct from many modern cars, offering a glimpse into the automotive engineering of the late 1980s.
