New versions of Sierra

Press, 25 October 1984, Page 27

New versions of Sierra

Ford is about to launch re-engined versions of the Sierra arid at the same time a new four-speed automatic gearbox will join Ford’s list of options. The new engine is of four cylinders and develops 73kW in 1.8-litre form. Subtle styling changes calculated to make the cars more acceptable to British traditionalists are expected in the new Sierra range. While the United Kingdom market generally acknowledges the Sierra to be an excellent all-round car, sales figures,- which have fluctuated since it was launched, indicate that the motoring public is still finding it difficult in many cases to accept what' has come to be known as the

Sierra’s “jelly, mould” styling. Although Ford chiefs had planned to introduce the new European flagship, the Granada replacement, before the end of this year, the launch has been postponed until the Geneva Motor Show, which will take place in the northern spring of 1985. ' Those who have seen this car, codenamed De-1, say that it is sleeker, lighter and more luxurious than the existing Granada. It bears a strong family resemblance to the Sierra, incorporating Ford’s “aeroback” styling and Sierra front end treatment. However, the over-all effect is said to be neater and cleaner than that of the Sierra. The windscreen and side windows are flush fitting and the door pillars are slim, so the all-round field of vision should be good. However, the biggest changes will be beneath the long, sloping bonnet. Ford has developed a new range of engines for this car. They include a normally aspirated 1.8-litre unit — that destined to be used also in the new Sierra — and finishing with a 2.9-litre V 6.

It is unlikely that the 1.8litre engine will be used in the Granada replacement in

the United Kingdom, where the base model will probably be powered by a 2-litre fuel-injected four-cylinder engine developing about 82kW. A Weber injection system will most likely be used. Following the 2-litre fourcylinder engine will corrie a completely new 2.4-litre V 6 to replace the ageing 2.3litre unit which was used in this country in the V - engined Cortina range. The 2.4-litre unit with fuel injection and a long stroke should devleop around 93kW and have plenty of bottomend torque, combined with better fuel econohny than the earlier 2.3 V 6. The top engine will be the injected 2.9 V 6, which should < develop around U5.5kW.

Already there are suggestions that this engine will be offered in a Ferguson four-wheel-drive version by the end of next year. Just to round off the engine range, Ford will also offer a 2.5 litre four-cylin-der diesel power unit developed by the French PSA Group. All the Granada replacements will be offered with five-speed manual gearboxes, although it is expected that the four-speed automatic transmission to be used in the. new Sierra will be offered also in the larger car. Apparently the question of a name for the new model is still a debatable subject among top Ford people in Europe. Originally it was thought this car might be called the Lugano. Now Scorpio is finding some favour, but Ford’s United Kingdom chief, Sam Toy, is said to be pressing for the retention of Granada, the established name which, it is said, commands respect in British motoring circles. However, whatever its name, Ford says it will be the outcome of a unanimous vote, for it has been agreed that, starting with the

Sierra, all new Ford models in Europe will have names common to all countries.