The Ford Sierra Cosworth 4x4 of Bernard Béquin and Jean-Paul Chiaroni, competing in the Criterium des Cévennes 1992, represents one of the most iconic models of French rallying in the 90s. This 1/43 scale miniature faithfully captures the spirit of that golden age of motorsport, where transformed production cars ruled the twisty roads of national rallies.
A true collector's item, this detailed reproduction is aimed at car enthusiasts and collectors eager to relive the great moments of French rallying through exceptional miniatures.
Features of the miniature
- Model: Ford Sierra Cosworth 4x4
- Brand: Ford
- Year: 1992
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Red and white
- Race number: 3
- Event: Criterium des Cévennes 1992
- Drivers: Bernard Béquin / Jean-Paul Chiaroni
- Protective case included: Yes
The Ford Sierra Cosworth 4x4 model
Launched in 1990, the Ford Sierra Cosworth 4x4 represented the technological pinnacle of the Sierra line. Developed in collaboration with Cosworth Engineering, this all-wheel-drive version was equipped with the legendary 2.0 turbo engine producing 220 horsepower, paired with an intelligent four-wheel drive system distributing torque based on grip conditions.
This sporty sedan stood out with its massive fender flares, prominent rear spoiler, and specific air intakes. Technically, it benefited from a reinforced chassis, sports suspension, and ventilated brakes designed to withstand the most extreme demands. These features made it a formidable weapon both on track and in rally stages.
The commercial success was immediate among thrill-seekers, despite a high price. Ford produced only 2934 units of this version, making it a highly sought-after car by collectors today.
Ford in the early 90s
In the early 1990s, Ford was undergoing a technological renaissance in Europe. The blue oval brand focused on strategic partnerships, notably with Cosworth, to develop high-performance versions of its production models. This strategy aimed to restore the brand's sporty image after successes in Formula 1 and rally championships.
The history of Ford Motor Company, founded in 1903 by Henry Ford in Detroit, was adding a new European chapter. The European subsidiary, with expertise gained since the 1960s, developed models specifically tailored to the tastes and roads of the Old Continent. The Sierra Cosworth fit perfectly into this differentiation philosophy, offering Europeans cars that combined performance with everyday practicality, far from traditional American muscle cars.
The anecdote of the Criterium des Cévennes
The Criterium des Cévennes 1992 will be remembered as one of the most contested editions of this mythical event. Bernard Béquin, an experienced driver from the region, knew the Cévennes roads and their traps very well. Paired with Jean-Paul Chiaroni, a seasoned navigator, they formed a formidable crew on these demanding courses.
This Ford Sierra Cosworth 4x4 number 3 had been meticulously prepared to tackle the Cévennes stages. The mechanics had adjusted the suspension settings to optimize handling on the narrow, winding roads characteristic of this mountainous region. The grip of the all-wheel drive provided a considerable advantage on wet passages common in the Cévennes.
The event took place under particularly challenging conditions, with rain and sun alternations making the timings unpredictable. The Sierra Cosworth demonstrated all its versatility, completing the stages with remarkable consistency. This car perfectly symbolized the spirit of French rallying in the 90s, where technical mastery took precedence over sheer power.
The Criterium des Cévennes then represented a benchmark event of the French championship, attracting the best national specialists and a few international drivers in search of authentic sensations on roads preserved from mass tourism.
Complete your miniature collection
This Ford Sierra Cosworth 4x4 holds a special place in the world of rally miniatures. It fits perfectly into collections dedicated to the 1990s or rally cars, a prosperous period for French motorsport.
Collectors will enjoy adding it to other models from the Cosworth range, available in Ford miniatures, or with contemporaries like the Peugeot 205 GTI or Citroën BX 4TC. This miniature also finds its place in a thematic collection dedicated to 4x4s or competition cars.
Beyond seasoned collectors, this reproduction appeals to car enthusiasts who experienced this golden age of French rallying, as well as curious novices looking to discover the history of motorsport through exceptional miniature models. The 1/43 scale, perfectly suited for display, allows for an appreciation of all the details of this authentic rally preparation.
