Was the Ford Cosworth sold in the US?
The Ford Cosworth is a legendary name in the automotive world, known for its high-performance engineering and motorsport pedigree. However, many enthusiasts in the United States often wonder whether this iconic vehicle was ever officially sold in the US market. Let’s dive into the history and clarify this question.
The Ford Cosworth: A Brief Overview
The Ford Cosworth refers to a series of high-performance vehicles developed through a partnership between Ford and Cosworth, a British engineering company renowned for its expertise in motorsport engines. These cars, particularly the Ford Sierra RS Cosworth and the Ford Escort RS Cosworth, gained fame in the 1980s and 1990s for their turbocharged engines, rally success, and distinctive styling.
Was the Ford Cosworth Officially Sold in the US?
Unfortunately for American enthusiasts, the Ford Cosworth models were never officially sold in the United States. These vehicles were primarily designed for the European market, where they competed in motorsport events and were sold as road cars to meet homologation requirements. The Sierra RS Cosworth and Escort RS Cosworth, for example, were hugely popular in Europe but were not imported to the US by Ford.
Why Was the Ford Cosworth Not Sold in the US?
There are several reasons why the Ford Cosworth models were not offered in the US:
- Emissions Regulations: During the 1980s and 1990s, US emissions standards were stricter than those in Europe. Modifying the Cosworth engines to meet these standards would have been costly and time-consuming.
- Market Demand: The US market at the time was more focused on larger sedans, trucks, and muscle cars. High-performance European-style hatchbacks and sedans like the Cosworth models were considered niche products with limited appeal.
- Cost of Importation: Importing and certifying the vehicles for US roads would have increased their price significantly, making them less competitive in the market.
How Can You Own a Ford Cosworth in the US?
Although the Ford Cosworth was not officially sold in the US, it is still possible to own one today. Here’s how:
- Importing Under the 25-Year Rule: US law allows vehicles that are at least 25 years old to be imported without needing to meet modern safety and emissions standards. Many enthusiasts have taken advantage of this rule to bring in classic Ford Cosworth models.
- Private Sales: Some Cosworth models have already been imported by collectors and are occasionally available for sale in the US through private sellers or specialty dealerships.
Conclusion
While the Ford Cosworth was never officially sold in the US, its reputation as a high-performance icon has crossed borders and inspired a dedicated following among American car enthusiasts. Thanks to import laws and the passion of collectors, it’s still possible to experience the thrill of owning one of these legendary vehicles on US soil.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the rarest Cosworth?
Ford Sierra Cosworth RS500
But the Ford Sierra Cosworth RS500 was the ultimate rare breed. Where the standard RS Cosworth was a homologation special in the truest sense (Ford built 5,548 Sierra RS Cosworths between 1986 and 1987, in order to go Group A racing) the RS500 was the evo special that got people excited.
How much is a Sierra Cosworth worth today?
Ford Sierra Cosworth RS500 sells for nearly £600,000. A low-mileage Ford Sierra Cosworth RS500 that had been fastidiously maintained by its owner has been sold at auction for more than three times top estimate and over five times the 'concours' Hagerty Price Guide value of £115,000.
Was Cosworth sold in the US?
In total 7,145 vehicles were produced from the start of production on 19 February 1992 until the last car rolled out of the factory on 12 January 1996. A small number were officially imported to the United States by a third party.
What is the top speed of the Ford Cosworth?
Max speed: 149 mph. 0–60 mph: 6.5 sec.
What is special about Cosworth engine?
Cosworth elected for a cross-plane crank design with 90-degree bank angles and dry sump. Weighing just 252kg in total – lighter than the naturally aspirated Aston Martin 6.0-litre V12 – steps were made to optimise weight throughout the engine, including titanium connecting rods and a carbon fibre inlet plenum.
How many Cosworths are left?
| 2023 | 2021 | |
|---|---|---|
| FORD ESCORT COSWORTH | 24 | 17 |
| FORD ESCORT RS COSWORTH | 221 | 281 |
| FORD SIERRA RS COSWORTH | 435 | 450 |
| FORD SIERRA SAPPHIRE COSWORTH | 254 | 258 |
What do Cosworth do now?
For 65 years we've been at the forefront of vehicle innovation, delivering cutting-edge vehicle propulsion, electrification, data and control systems the world over. We collaborate with global partners, driving the future of engineering and technology across the automotive, motorsport, aerospace, and marine sectors.
Is Cosworth still owned by Ford?
In September, 2004 Ford announced that it was selling Cosworth, along with Cosworth Racing Ltd and its Jaguar Formula One team. On 15 November 2004, the sale of Cosworth was completed to Champ Car World Series owners Gerald Forsythe and Kevin Kalkhoven They are the current owners of the Cosworth Group.
What happened to Cosworth engines?
In September 1998, Vickers sold Cosworth to Audi. Audi kept the engineering, manufacturing and casting unit, which it called Cosworth Technology, and sold the race engine division, Cosworth Racing, and its electronics division, Pi Research, to Ford.
