Estimated Price: £50,000 - £70,000

If the Sierra RS Cosworth was a homologation special, the RS500 was its evolution. Having produced the requisite 5,000 RS Cosworths, Ford could introduce an upgraded version under Group A regulations, provided 500 road cars were built. The resulting RS500 incorporated engine and aerodynamic changes intended to enhance its competition potential, establishing its place among the most recognisable performance Fords of the era.

Presented here is RS500 number #224 of 500, now carrying its original registration number, E560 HXR. Its history includes a recorded re-shell in 1988, an important aspect of the car’s identity that prospective purchasers should understand. The chassis stamping beneath the seat is not an original Ford factory stamping, although the number matches the slam panel plate, door stamping and V5C. Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the car’s identity and supporting documentation, and we encourage your inspection.

The subsequent history includes the sale of the rolling shell in 2020 to the Ford technician who undertook its extensive restoration. Our vendor later acquired the project and financed the remaining work, bringing the car to its present condition. The accompanying history file contains photographs taken during restoration, together with images of the engine before installation, documenting its condition and the work carried out.

Central to the rebuild is a brand new, correct, unmodified YBD RS500 crate engine, sourced from Fast Ford specialists, Tremona Garage in Southampton. This has covered approximately 650 miles since installation, an important distinction from a rebuilt or modified engine and a particular attraction for a buyer seeking to use and enjoy the car.

Supporting work included the renewal of the intercooler, fuel lines, hoses, belts and brakes, alongside the installation of a stainless steel exhaust and coil-over suspension. The majority of parts were supplied by Graham Goode Motors of Leicester. The engine bay reflects the scope of the restoration, with components, fixings and surrounding surfaces refurbished or renewed as required.

Finished in black, the bodywork was comprehensively refinished during the restoration. The distinctive RS500 aerodynamic additions, wheels and exterior trim complement the car’s presentation. Beneath the car, extensive attention was also given to the surfaces, brackets and fixings, with the restoration photographs providing useful supporting detail.

The cabin retains much of its original interior, including the Recaro seats, which display light wear and some sagging commensurate with their age. The vendor describes the headlining as very good. Minor delamination is noted at the right-hand corner of the dashboard top, while the left-hand door inner glass trim was being sourced at the time of cataloguing.

The five-digit odometer displayed 31,370 miles at the time of cataloguing, however, Darren Barber, the RS500 Registrar, has confirmed that his records show approximately 124,000 miles in 2012. The current display may therefore represent a reading following an odometer rollover and should not be taken as the car’s total mileage, which is unknown. Separately, the genuine Ford factory-supplied, unmodified YBD crate engine has covered approximately 650 miles since installation.

With its early re-shell openly recorded, extensive subsequent restoration and correct, unmodified YBD engine, this RS500 has particular appeal as a car to drive. For an enthusiast seeking to experience its performance and character, rather than reserve it solely for display, number 224 offers a compelling opportunity to enjoy the RS500 as its designers intended.