The Ford Sierra was a very common sight on New Zealand roads in the 1980s, offering affordable and practical motoring for families. This review dives into the specifics of owning a Sierra in NZ, highlighting potential problems, maintenance needs, and its overall heritage.
Rust, cooling system issues, fuel injection system problems, rear differential wear and noise, headlight deterioration.
Expect to find rust around wheel arches, sills, around windows. Suspension bushes and ball joints, brake condition,, exhaust system, electrical components and the function of the windscreen washer operation are all common WOF failure points.
The Sierra's popularity in New Zealand stemmed from its affordability and practicality as a family car. Its distinctive 'jelly-mould' styling was well-known.
Motorsport Heritage: Though not a powerhouse in professional motorsport in NZ, some Sierras did participate at the club level.
Why it Matters: Even modest participation adds to the Sierra's charm, appealing to those who enjoy restoring or modifying them.
Maintenance Gaps: Many Sierras on the road today suffer from a lack of preventative maintenance over the years. Cooling system issues and fuel injection problems are most common, as is rear differential wear. Neglecting the electrical components can also lead to faults. Addressing these can significantly improve reliability.