why is the Ford Sierra XR4x4 not very well known

well, atleast here in finland the price was a bit too high, only 50000 FIM (about 8400 EUR) from the cosworth, so i think that many who had enough money at the time went for the cossie. and yeah i got the 2.8 xr4x4 and is a pain in the ass to try and find some parts for it

Its unknown mainly because it doesnt have "cosworth" across the tailgate and it is still seen as the 1980's company car/minicab/banger racer.... Its the same in england with cortinas, a GT is less money compared to the LOTUS, even though a GT has a more useable engine (like the XR4x4). They are pretty common in the UK and are gaining in classic status. There were plenty at Ford Fair 2008. I too have a 2.9 xr4x4 that i rescued last year. Parts dont tend to wear mechanicallly as a lot of the stuff, gearboxes, clutches and wheel bearings were designed for the Granada 4x4, Sierra and Escort cossies. the xr4x4 is over engineered. Trim is difficult to get hold of over here as is good quality body panels. Have you tried Burton Power for engine bits? also Hadrian panels in the UK do body stuff. Try your local Ford dealer if they are good they can get some of the stuff and you maybe suprised. keep the ford flag flying!!!