The Ford Sierra Turnier II 2.3 D represents a practical and economical offering from Ford’s European lineup during the late 1980s. Introduced in 1987 and continuing through 1989, this variant of the Sierra estate (station wagon) was specifically geared towards buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and load-carrying capacity. While not known for outright performance, the 2.3 D Turnier II filled a crucial niche in the European market, offering a robust and reliable vehicle for families and commercial users. The Sierra itself was a significant departure from its predecessor, the Cortina, embracing a more modern, aerodynamic design and front-wheel-drive layout for many models – though the Turnier 2.3 D retained rear-wheel drive. This model wasn’t officially sold in the United States, but understanding its specifications and role provides insight into the automotive landscape of Europe during that period.
Ford Sierra Turnier II 2.3 D: A Detailed Overview
The Sierra Turnier II, as a second-generation estate, built upon the success of the original Sierra, refining its design and engineering. The “Turnier” designation specifically denoted the estate or station wagon body style, a popular choice for those needing versatile cargo space. The 2.3 D variant, powered by a diesel engine, was positioned as the workhorse of the range, offering lower running costs compared to its gasoline-powered counterparts. It was a common sight in rural areas and among businesses requiring a dependable vehicle for transporting goods.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Ford Sierra Turnier II 2.3 D is a naturally aspirated 2.3-liter diesel engine, designated with the engine codes YTR or YTT. This engine produced a modest 67 horsepower. While this figure may seem low by modern standards, it was typical for diesel engines of that era, prioritizing fuel economy and durability over outright power. The engine’s torque characteristics were more significant, providing adequate pulling power for hauling loads. The powertrain architecture is a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) driving the rear wheels. The vehicle featured a 5-speed manual transmission, allowing drivers to optimize engine speed for efficiency or to navigate varying road conditions. The weight-to-power ratio of 17.6 kg/Hp, or 56.8 Hp/tonne, reflects the vehicle’s focus on practicality rather than performance. Acceleration was not a strong suit, but the engine’s robustness and the rear-wheel-drive configuration made it capable of handling substantial payloads.
Design & Features
The Ford Sierra Turnier II 2.3 D is a five-door station wagon, offering five seats and a generous cargo area. Its body style was designed for maximum practicality, with a large rear hatch and a relatively flat load floor. The exterior design, while modern for its time, was characterized by clean lines and a focus on aerodynamic efficiency. 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 as a mid-size estate car. Safety features were relatively basic by today’s standards, but included ventilated disc brakes on the front axle and drum brakes on the rear. The steering system employed a steering rack and pinion for precise control. The interior was functional and durable, designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. Features were kept to a minimum to maintain affordability, focusing on providing a comfortable and practical driving experience. The turning circle measured 10 meters (32.81 ft), making it reasonably maneuverable in urban environments.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Sierra |
| Generation | Sierra Turnier II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.3 D (67 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1987 |
| End of production | 1989 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 17.6 kg/Hp |
| Power | 67 Hp |
| Engine Model/Code | YTR, YTT |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 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 | 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 |
In conclusion, the Ford Sierra Turnier II 2.3 D was a pragmatic vehicle designed to meet the needs of European buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and versatile estate car. While it lacked the performance of some of its rivals, its durability, practicality, and low running costs made it a popular choice for families and businesses alike. It represents a significant chapter in Ford’s European history, showcasing the company’s ability to adapt to changing market demands and provide reliable transportation for a wide range of customers.
