Insight: Ford Sierra RS500 Cosworth No.2 Frank Biela Roland Asch Thomas Lindström 3rd 24H Spa 1990
Overview of the Ford Sierra RS500 Cosworth No.2
The Ford Sierra RS500 Cosworth No.2, driven by the accomplished trio of Frank Biela, Roland Asch, and Thomas Lindström to a third-place finish at the 1990 24 Hours of Spa, stands as a legendary icon of touring car racing. Built by Eggenberger Motorsport, this evolution of the Sierra Cosworth featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter Cosworth YBB engine, producing approximately 550-600 horsepower, enhanced with aerodynamic upgrades and a reinforced chassis. Its striking Texaco livery and aggressive design made it a formidable contender in the European Touring Car Championship (ETCC), showcasing Ford’s engineering prowess in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Performance at the 1990 24 Hours of Spa
The 1990 24 Hours of Spa highlighted the Ford Sierra RS500 Cosworth No.2’s endurance and reliability, with Biela, Asch, and Lindström securing third place in a fiercely competitive field. Facing rivals like the BMW M3 and Volvo 240 Turbo, the car’s performance was bolstered by strategic pit stops and the drivers’ expertise, navigating the challenging 7.004 km Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps over the grueling 24-hour duration. This podium finish added to the RS500’s storied legacy, following its iconic victory at the 1989 Spa 24 Hours, cementing its reputation as a touring car titan.
Legacy and Historical Significance
The Ford Sierra RS500 Cosworth No.2 holds a revered place in motorsport history, contributing to Ford’s dominance in the ETCC, where it clinched the manufacturers’ title in 1988. The third-place finish in 1990, driven by the seasoned Biela—later a Le Mans legend—alongside Asch and Lindström, underscored the car’s adaptability and the team’s tactical acumen. Originally developed with 500 road-going homologation models, the RS500’s racing success, including multiple Spa podiums, reflects its engineering innovation and enduring appeal, making it a celebrated symbol of 1990s touring car racing heritage.
