Dust-covered Ford Sierra abandoned in barn for three decades sells for tens of thousands at auction

A DUST-covered Ford Sierra RS Cosworth abandoned in a barn for 31 years has sold for £60,000.

The boy racers’ favourite was left there by a car dealer named Tony after it was slightly damaged in a botched theft.

His daughter sent the 1986 motor to auction in Norfolk after his death.

He said: “This car was a bit of an urban legend in the village where Tony lived. He was known as a bit of a ladies man and this car was all part of the look.

“This car must have caused quite a stir at the time.

“But in the late summer of 1991 an attempt was made to steal the car. During this break-in, the RS Cosworth was started, moved and damaged within minutes of the attempted theft.

“Despite only relatively minor damage, the owner lost heart and drove it into the barn where it remained untouched until recently.

“It looks tired and dirty but there is no rust or corrosion and the damage from the 1991 incident is only minor.

“At no point has an insurance claim been made on the car.

“These cars were thrashed and trashed so the sale of a very, very original Ford Sierra Codworth with low mileage represented a rare opportunity.”