Multiple different trim levels were available for the Sierra’s through out the years. The trim levels are some what inconsistent, selection changed by year, and not all markets got the same trim levels available. The most notable change was when the Laser trim was discontinued in 1989, and from 1990 many more Sierra’s got equipped with better trim level.
All trim levels listed:
C
L sits above the base model but under the GL.
CL is like the L, but introduced in 1990 and is common for pre-facelifts (1990 to 1991).
CLX
LD
Laser introduced around 1985, the most common trim for a mk1 Sierra, considered as the base model and often called poverty spec.
LX came with a sunroof, pinstripes, radio and speakers.
CLS
GL introduced in 1987, base model but with added instrument cluster dimming in the dash.
GT
GLX
GLS came with front foglights.
Ghia introduced in 1982 when the Sierra model launched, the top-tier luxury spec from all normal ones, often if not always equipped with everything.
S
RS came with an aerodynamic sporty body kit, RS alloy wheels and a 3-spoke steering wheel.
Minker is not an official trim level from the factory, built by legendary British engineering firm Turbo Technics. 2.9i V6 engine boasting 320hp.
Chasseur limited-run “special” edition trim came with two-tone paint, alloy wheels and a tow bar.
Quartz is a limited-run late 80’s budget special edition with a unique exterior decal kit.
Azura limited-run “special” edition trim
Swift
Fresco introduced in 1991 is a so called “special” edition trim, but in reality it’s just a late mk2 base model that came with pinstripes, radio and 4 speakers.
XR4i introduced in 1983 in 3 door hatchback body that got an extra pillar in the rear, always RWD and with a 2.8i V6 engine (early ones got a boot lid sticker saying “XR4” instead of the more common “XR4i” sticker).
XR4x4 introduced in 1987 in 5 door hatchback body with 4×4 drivetrain and 2.9i V6 engine.
RS Cosworth introduced in 1985, available in mk1 (1985-1987) and mk2 (1987-1993). Early mk2’s are 204hp RWD, from 1990 forwards they’re 4×4 and 220hp.
RS500
XR6
XR8 available from 1984 to 1988 only in South Africa and only 250 units were produced. The 5.0L V8 engine and C3 transmission were taken from Mustang.