Ford Sierra Impresses On Test Drive

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 5, Issue 15, 8 September 1987, Page 7 (Supplement)

Ford Sierra Impresses On Test Drive

by

Mark

Middleton

AFTER driving six cylinder cars, the idea of getting behind the wheel of a four cylinder seemed strange but it didn't take long for the Ford Sierra to dispel any apprehension I had. Before testing the handling and performance of the Sierra on a rough country road I decided that a drive south along State Highway Four would give me an opportunity to familiarise myself with the car. I had no problems getting my short torso into a comfortable driving position and was immediately impressed by the clear instrument and dash layout. The important instruments - speedometer, rev. counter, fuel and temperqture gauges - are clearly visible and it is just as well as I was exceeding the speed limit when 1 changed into fifth gear. The temptation to put my foot down suddenly had me travelling at over 160km/hr(100 miles) but still under 4500 rpm and I immediately appreciated the performance of the two-litre engine and aerodynamics which helps make this an exciting car to drive. 1 expected to be aware of excessive road noise but was surprised at the quietness of the wagon. Knowing 1 was

breaking all speed records, the good visibility and large side rear-vision mirrors ensured that Buck Buchanan and his assistants didn't sneak up behind me! The first impressions of this "speed capsule" were good but I decided that the rough trip home would be a true test of English technology. However, apart from the dog biscuits and the groceries sliding around in the spacious back compartment the winding tarseal road to Kirikau wasn't a problem, with the Sierra performing with distinction. The cornering was excellent and the gear box smooth, although the response to de-celeration was a little slow, resulting in the need to test the brakes on a couple of corners, or a swim in the Wanganui River was a certainty. The next twenty kilometres of twisting metal road were the final and toughest test for this car. The occasional boulder hitting the underneath was a good test of the panel strength and apart from stones being

flicked off the wheel and causing minor damage to the exhaust system the Sierra performed beyond my expectations. I was a little concerned at the low position of the radiator had I run into the water table, but I had managed to stay on the road so this, also, wasn't a problem. The ventilation was good and the dust didn't seem to sneak inside. All round, I am pleased I decided on the Sierra and enjoyed the excellent performance and space this medium sized station wagon provides. This car must be great value for the average motorist.