Sapphire

PRODUCTION

1990-92; approx. number built 12,250; assembled at Genk, Belgium using UK-built engine and Ferguson patented 4x4 transmission with MT75 gearbox.

ENGINE

Type:- Ford Cosworth YBJ/YBG

Capacity:- 1993cc

Bore stroke:- 90.82mm/76.95mm

Compression ratio:- 8:1

Max Power:- 224 bhp at 6000 rpm (6250 with cat)

Max Torque:- 214 lbft at 3500rpm

Specific output:- 110.4 bhp a litre

Power/weight ratio:- 174.6 bhp per ton

Cylinders:- Four, in line

Cylinder head:- Stiffened cast alloy

Block:- Modified pinto/RS500 iron casing

Valve gear:- Cosworth four valves per cylinder head, double over head camshafts (DOHC) of revised profiles, belt drive.

Fuel and Ignition:- Weber-Marelli ignition/fuelling management, Garret TO3B turbocharger with lead seal for wastegate and enlarged intercooler.

The YBJ was the red rocker cover Euro 1504 Emission trim. YBG was to the more restrictive US '83 emission level. Significant 4x4 YGJ/YBG motor changes included: inlet manifold/fuelling rail; replacement cast iron exhaust manifold (no damper); oil and water pumps; cast alloy sump pan; head gasket; first platinum-tipped Motorcraft spark plugs (which didn't work properly!!! R) and synthetic oils only.

TRANSMISSION

Type:- front engine, permanent 4WD, Ferguson 4WD/Viscous Coupling patent, 4x4 utilised 34-66 per cent front-rear torque split via transfer box epicyclic centre differential, further modified by Viscous Coupling action, front drive via Hyvo chain, 31 tooth chain wheels, 6.5 in spiral bevel gear free differential and equal length drive shafts, to the rear by gear output shaft, propshaft, 7in hypoid Viscous Coupling limited slip rear axle, single dry plate clutch, cable operation, 240mm

Gearbox:- Five speed Ford MT75

Internal Ratios:- 1st 3.62, 2nd 2.08, 3rd 1.36, 4th 1:1, 5th 0.83

Final Drive:- 3.62:1 22.24mph per 1000 rpm in 5th

SUSPENSION

Front:- Via Macpherson struts, unique RS spring rates, monotube gas damping, thickened (30mm) anti-roll bar.

Rear:- Seperate springs and single tube gas dampers, plus 18mm rear anti-roll bar, Spring rate as per 2WD

STEERING

Type:- Hydraulic power assistance, rack and pinion, lock to lock; 2.6 turns

BRAKES

Front:- 278mm x 24mm

Rear:- 273mm x 20mm

System:- Four wheel ventilated discs with Teeves ABS electronic anti-lock braking and hydraulic assistance.

WHEELS AND TYRES

Wheels:- Unique RS 7 x 15in alloys

Tyres:- Bridgestone ER90 205/50 ZR

BODY

Type:- Sierra 4-dr

Cd:- 0.322

Construction:- Unitary steel with RS polyurethane panels including front and rear spoilers, side sills and bonnet louvres.

Dimensions:- Overall length 4494mm, Width 1698, Height 1376, Wheelbase 2608, Kerb weight 1280kg (add 10kg for cat)

PERFORMANCE AND ECONOMY

Max Speed:- 150 mph

Acceleration:- 0-60 mph, 5.5 seconds

Fuel Consumption:- 22.1mpg urban, 37.2mpg at constant 56mph, 30.4mpg at 75 mph.

PRICE NEW:-

(1991 H reg) £27,500